The PACE Plan Breakdown: Primary to Emergency, Step by Step

When disaster strikes, clear and reliable communication can mean the difference between confusion and control. That’s where a PACE plan - Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency - comes in.

At Network Innovations, we live by the principle: 'Prepare for, respond to, and recover from,' especially when it comes to ensuring uninterrupted communication during emergencies.

One of the most effective tools we advocate for is the PACE methodology: Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency. More than just an acronym, PACE is a proven communications planning tool designed to ensure that no matter the situation, you stay connected. By building a layered strategy with clearly defined options, organizations and individuals can respond more effectively to disruptions - minimizing downtime, confusion, and risk.

The PACE Methodology - A Framework for Preparedness

Primary Plan: This is your ideal plan. The one you’d like to execute if everything goes according to your expectations. It involves the use of the main communications system and could include technologies such as landline phones, cellular networks, or internet-based tools like email, messaging, and Voice over IP (VoIP) services. This is what you use day-to-day.

Alternate Plan: This is your backup plan. The one implemented when your primary form of communication is unavailable. These methods may be less convenient for everyday use but effectively ensure around-the-clock readiness. Examples include having a backup two-way radio solution, satellite phones, or substitute internet connections such as mobile hotspots.

Contingency Plan: This is your plan for dealing with unexpected events when the alternate solution isn’t successful. It focuses on implementing additional backup technologies that are more robust and resilient. From backup power generators to dedicated backup radio networks, these solutions are implemented to ensure the continuous operation of connected systems.

For organizations, it’s typically difficult to invest in this stage (and subsequently, the latter stage). This is often due to the cost, perceived unlikelihood of severe events, and limited resources. However, to ensure there is comprehensive investment and understanding in all stages, conducting risk assessments is key. This would help evaluate potential risks, and consequences, and allocate resources accordingly.

Emergency: This is your plan for dealing with catastrophic events when all of the above fails. When Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico in 2017, all landline and cellular infrastructure on the island was destroyed. Satellite voice and data were the only means of stable communications for days and weeks following the disaster.

Solutions include these satellite-based communication systems – such as Iridium phones, Iridium Certus for data, and Iridium PTT – emergency address broadcast systems, and even physical means of alert like loudspeakers or sirens to reach an audience quickly. Some even include the use of runners to pass messages should all else fail.

Your Trusted Voice

Deciding on the right plan of action can seem challenging. At Network Innovations, the team is readily available to guide you through the process, offering complete solutions to suit each stage of PACE.