Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
community responders who have limited access to ICT resources. SMS text
messaging can be used between two mobile devices or between a mobile
device and stationary computer (desktop, laptop). The caveat when commu-
nicating with someone who is using a small device is the limitation of read-
ing and responding across the small device, in addition to the 160-character
message exchange limit. Individualized training for each device that exists
also challenges training.
Being able to adapt to the size and capacity of the communication device
and platform when communicating with SMS text messaging takes practice
for effective use. Practice writing a 160 character message in lieu of a lengthy
message that could be exchanged via e-mail for example is one action that
can be practiced on both a stationary device and mobile device. Moreover,
recognizing that some devices allow the device user to send more than 160
characters at one time, the receiving service could arbitrarily break the mes-
sage into 160 character units regardless of if the break falls between words
or in the middle of a single word. Some cellular services, such as Cingular
Wireless (Gomez et al. 2006), do label each message (i.e., 1 of 2, 2 of 2, etc.)
while others do not. Some agent-based services will provide one message
with hyperlinks within the message to allow navigation to each part of the
message in sequence, as seen with Google SMS (2006).
SMS text messaging is a simple low-cost technology that is durable
because of its small packet exchange technology. SMS has begun inroads
as an SOS equivalent due to the alternate delivery route to voice channels.
During Katrina, SMS text messages got through when other communication
methods failed. Coast Guard officials used the technology for direct life sav-
ing helicopter rescues during the Gulf Coast hurricanes. SMS text messag-
ing can be considered a simple technology. For example, the ability to send
small packets that sit in a message queue outweighs the use of voice calls
that require you to continuously redial. There are approximately 190 million
Americans with text messaging functionality on their cell phones. The use of
text messaging won't overload the telecommunication systems (Strong Angel
2006a). The federal government is currently piloting its use with four major
wireless carriers. Mass text messaging could be problematic if not carefully
tested. The preferred design is for smaller distributions resembling that of
a community of interest. Local public health organizations could also fit the
criteria of a community of interest. “There is no doubt SMS has the ability to
save lives in an emergency” (Strong Angel 2006b).
7.3.2 Plain language across Organizations
Independent of device medium, the use of plain language across organiza-
tions is an interoperability focus for FEMA's National Incident Management
System (NIMS), and associated agencies, such as the National Institutes
of Health (NIH). Plain language is becoming a standard (FEMA 2005) for
interoperable communication in emergency response, and dates back to at
