Enable Dual SMS Phone Numbers in CAD (Operational vs AIP Messaging)

Overview:

Programs using Dispatch Pro rely heavily on SMS notifications for both daily operational coordination and safety-related events such as AIP/ERP activations. Currently, all outbound messages originate from the same SMS number, regardless of urgency or purpose.

Opportunity for Improvement:

Introducing the ability to configure two outbound SMS numbers within CAD would allow programs to separate routine operational messaging from emergency or safety-critical communications.

This distinction would:

• Improve clarity for recipients

• Allow users to set device-level rules or priority settings

• Reduce desensitization to alerts

• Strengthen emergency response workflows

Proposed Capability:

• Provide administrative configuration within Dispatch Pro to:

• Maintain two outbound SMS numbers

• Assign specific message categories (e.g., AIP Module notifications vs general paging) to a designated number

• Allow flexibility for programs to determine how each number is used

Business & Safety Rationale:

• Emergency communications should be immediately identifiable and distinguishable from routine operational traffic. A dual-number system creates a simple, scalable solution without requiring major workflow changes or additional platforms.

• This enhancement would support safety-focused organizations by improving emergency alert recognition while preserving existing paging functionality.