TECHNOLOGY
The principle is simple: one secure system where alerts can be created, targeted to specific teams, tracked in real time and logged for future reference.
timeline that is useful for post-incident analysis and compliance. A key feature is flexibility. Whether an on-call engineer is at home or a clinical lead is on the ward, two-way messaging means staff can reply in real time, reducing the need for multiple follow-up calls and ensuring that everyone stays in the loop. Critically, these systems are designed to integrate with existing infrastructure, meaning upgrades can be achieved with minimal disruption or capital outlay.
The value of audit trails One of the most significant benefits of
Kevin Brown
Kevin Brown is the CEO and co-founder of BlueSky Wireless, a leader in integrated communications solutions for healthcare, manufacturing, hospitality, retail, and education. Since co- founding the company in 2003, Kevin has guided BlueSky Wireless through continuous innovation and growth, helping organisations connect equipment, machinery, and people to drive efficiency and safety. Kevin began his career
in 1989, specialising in embedded system design and software engineering. Over the years, he transitioned into leadership roles, building and scaling products and service offerings for diverse markets. Under his direction, BlueSky Wireless has become known for its reliable, cutting-edge solutions that empower businesses to operate smarter and safer.
and provide minimal detail. Emails are essential for non- urgent updates but are easily overlooked. Increasingly, staff turn to their own mobile phones and consumer apps to fill the gaps – raising concerns about data security, confidentiality and compliance with NHS guidelines. This mix of systems can lead to a lack of clarity and accountability. During a major incident, multiple teams may be working from different versions of events. Critical updates can be missed, duplicated, or misunderstood. In the aftermath, reconstructing what happened and when can be almost impossible, making it difficult to learn lessons or demonstrate compliance to regulators.
Integrated communication: A new standard Recognising these challenges, a growing number of NHS trusts and private providers are moving towards integrated communication platforms. The principle is simple: one secure system where alerts can be created, targeted to specific teams, tracked in real time and logged for future reference. Integrated platforms offer a range of practical benefits.
First, they eliminate the confusion of juggling multiple channels. Whether it’s a routine maintenance update or a major incident, everyone receives the same information at the same time. Second, they provide clear accountability. It’s easy to see who has acknowledged a message, who is responding, and what actions have been taken. Third, they generate a lasting record, supporting audit, compliance and continuous improvement. For example, when a fire alarm is triggered, the estates team can be alerted instantly, with clear instructions on location and urgency. Facilities can be notified to prepare for evacuation or support, and security can coordinate access and crowd control. The entire process is logged, providing a detailed timeline for post-incident review and regulatory scrutiny. Recent advances in communication technology have
led to the development of platforms such as Smart Console V2, which is designed to address the specific bottlenecks and challenges that arise in hospitals. It enables users to send targeted alerts to specific
groups – such as estates, clinical teams or portering in seconds. The system tracks who has received and acknowledged the message, and allows for instant follow- up if needed. If the situation escalates, every action and message is logged, creating a detailed, time-stamped
82 Health Estate Journal January 2026
integrated communication platforms is the ability to learn from an event. Traditionally, post-incident reviews relied on memory and handwritten notes. With digital systems, estates managers and clinical leaders have a clear, auditable record of every message and interaction. This allows for honest, data-driven reflections on what worked well, and where improvements can be made. Over time, this approach builds a culture where communication is not just faster, but smarter and more consistent. Teams gain confidence that the information they receive is accurate, timely, and actionable. Managers can identify patterns, address recurring issues, and demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards. While technology is important, effective communication is ultimately about people. For a night-shift nurse responding to a patient deterioration, clear, targeted alerts mean they know exactly who is on their way and what support to expect. For the estates engineer called out to a power failure, having all relevant information and the ability to update colleagues as the situation evolves reduces stress and duplication. For security officers, being able to coordinate with clinical leads without leaving their post supports a safer, more controlled response. The right communication tools mean less time spent
chasing updates and more time focused on the task at hand. Staff morale improves, frustration decreases and the entire organisation becomes more resilient.
Barriers to adoption Adopting new technology is never without challenges. Change can be daunting, particularly in environments where staff are already stretched. Concerns about training, compatibility with existing systems and disruption to daily operations are common. However, modern solutions are designed with these realities in mind. Many platforms can be layered onto existing infrastructure, requiring only a software update rather than a full hardware overhaul. Training is intuitive, with interfaces that mirror familiar devices and workflows. Importantly, these systems are built with data security and compliance at their core. For estates and facilities leaders, security managers and clinical teams, the move to integrated communication is a practical step that delivers immediate benefits. Faster response times, more confident staff, fewer communication gaps, and a stronger ability to demonstrate compliance are just some of the tangible outcomes.
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