Disasters have an unsettling way of bringing chaos through, among other things, loss of communication. Many smart businesses and governments have contingency plans in place in order to maintain some form of control and order when Mother Nature decides it’s time to shake things up. We’re starting to see more examples of microblogging applications filling holes in communication architecture during times of need, so let’s take a look at a couple of examples.
Washington State provides us with an example of how governments are exploring the use of microblogging during times of emergency. Interestingly enough, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) recently turned to Twitter when their own servers were overwhelmed during recent emergencies and is considering more elaborate plans for the future:
Because the Web site is a popular source of traffic updates, sometimes it can’t handle a sudden spike in page hits… During an emergency, WSDOT is considering the option of posting a “neutered,” bare-bones version of its Web site that contains a Web link to the Twitter feed. Increasing use of Twitter during emergencies led to Twitter follower growth from 20 to 160.
If you check out the Twitter accounts that WSDOT follows, you’ll also find:
- SeattleTraffic – traffic information specific to Seattle
- WSFerries – an “unofficial” Twitter stream about the Washington State Ferry system
If you live in these areas, it makes good sense to subscribe these accounts and have their updates go to your mobile device.
This is just one example of how government departments are making good use of Twitter. It’s worth pointing out, however, that the use of Twitter is just one part of the state’s continuity plan, which also includes the aforementioned website. Microblogging becomes another tool in your communication toolbox when you need to get the word out during emergencies or even for planned service disruptions.
If you know of other government departments in other parts of the world that are doing similar things with microblogging applications, why not leave a comment and share the information?
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