A PACE plan, or Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency plan, is a communication methodology that helps organizations prepare for backup communication capabilities in unusual situations. It designates the order in which an element will move through available communications systems until contact can be established with the desired distant element. It was originally developed by the U.S. military to ensure reliable communications, but is now used in other industries, such as first responders, public safety agencies, local governments, and enterprises.
Stages:
- Primary. The most effective method of communication and used for everyday comms. These typically include cell phones, landline phones, and internet connections.
- Alternate. Effective but slightly less convenient for everyday use. You can use alternate communication technologies alongside primary comms to ensure 24/7 readiness. Blended connectivity helps teams navigate communication challenges by ensuring networks remain active during lapses during critical situations.
- Contingency. Going down an additional level, these methods will be slower, more expensive and less convenient than primary or alternate methods. IP Access’s RedPHONE is a phone that offers true off-grid communications. Operates between satellite nodes and is routed over the IP Access SELECT Network.
- Emergency. A last resort when primary, alternate and contingency means fail, as they have significant lag times, are expensive, and are more difficult to use. However, IP Access’s SuperGIG technology is an all-in-one connectivity solution that aggregates multiple cellular and satellite networks into a single service. As a result, SuperGIG delivers the highest possible throughput and uninterrupted connectivity for mission-critical communications.
