Choosing the best school intercom system requires enabling fast 2-way communications between classrooms and the front office. By considering features, cost, researching vendors, and installation requirements, schools can enhance communication efficiency and improve overall safety and student learning.
1. Assess Your School’s Needs
Start by evaluating your institution’s specific requirements. Consider factors such as the campus size, number of buildings, and communication needs of different departments. Identify the key objectives you want to achieve with the new intercom system, such as enhancing emergency response capabilities and enabling efficient communication with the front office.
Schleicher Independent School District (Texas), had a PA/Intercom system where the front office could initiate a call to a classroom, but classrooms couldn’t call the front office. After the implementation of Carina:Intercom teachers could press the classroom call button to reach the front office.
2. Evaluate System Features
Look for an intercom system that offers features aligned with your school’s needs. Some important considerations include:
PA System Integration
Your school’s Public Address (PA) system serves as a crucial communication tool for broadcasting announcements, emergency alerts, and important information to the entire school community. By selecting an intercom system that is already integrated with the existing PA system, you can leverage the infrastructure already in place and maximize the efficiency of communication efforts. This integration allows for unified control and operation of both systems, eliminating the need for separate setups and ensuring a consistent and synchronized communication experience.
Trinity Christian Academy (TCA) in Florida installed Carina, a comprehensive PA, intercom and bell scheduler system in 4 days, during a school break. Every Carina speaker also includes a microphone to allow for two-way communication.
Two-Way Communication
Ensure the intercom system enables two-way communication, allowing teachers to easily connect with the front office personnel. This functionality empowers teachers to relay urgent messages, request assistance, and seek support without leaving the classroom.
Ease of Use
A good intercom system should be user-friendly and simple for school administrators to manage and update.
When Schleicher ISD upgraded from analog to digital, they received Carina’s simple and easy-to-use web interface. Adjusting the volume and setting up intercom buttons went from difficult and tedious to quick and easy with Carina’s web interface.
3. Consider Your Budget & Total Cost of Ownership
While considering the budget is important, also examine the total cost of ownership. If you have an older analog system, how much did you spend last year repairing your existing system? Evaluate factors such as installation costs, licensing fees, ongoing maintenance, and potential future upgrades.
Wahsega’s exclusive wiring reduction technology allows schools to save up to 50% off cabling costs and IP technology creates a more reliable PA and Intercom system than analog systems.
Wiring Reduction Technology
Save up to 50% off cabling costs
4. Training and Support
Ensure that the chosen vendor provides comprehensive training and ongoing technical support to your staff. Well-trained personnel can maximize the potential of the intercom system and troubleshoot minor issues independently. Verify the vendor’s support mechanisms, response times, and availability to promptly address any technical concerns.
Wahsega’s US based support team is ready to help via phone, email, or video conferencing. Video tutorials are available on our Video Support page.
Conclusion
When selecting a school intercom system, finding one that integrates with the school’s PA system and allows for quick communication between classrooms and the front office is vital. Assess your school’s needs, evaluate system features, and request demonstrations and testimonials. Consider the total cost of ownership and the availability of training and support. By following these guidelines, you can find the best school intercom system that optimizes communication efficiency, enhances security, and fosters a conducive learning environment.
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