PointAbout is working with several institutions to create a new type of reporting & alerting system – one where the users are the eyes & ears of the system, and can send user-generated reports into the institution.   This is putting an entirely new spin on “311″ style non-emergency reporting and alerting. 

To demonstrate this technology, we have created a fictional university called “ACME University,” which in the video above has implemented the 311 reporting & alerting system.  Here’s how it would work:

An institution, say a university, would private-label PointAbout’s 311 reporting application so it showed the university’s brand.  The university would then distribute this application to students across the various types of mobile devices they carry.

Students can then use the application to report maintenance items, noise disturbances, and much more.  The trouble tickets they submit can also be managed through this application.  Since the application is web-based, it can be changed & modified by the institution as desired.

Additionally, PointAbout’s Application Gallery allows for the institution to add a list of complimentary, related applications for students to use, such as local metro or bus system schedules, free wi-fi locations, etc.  This increases the “stickiness” of the application.

This 311 reporting type system isn’t limited to use in universities.  Condo or apartment buildings, for example, could private-label this application and distribute it to residents for them to be the eyes & ears of the building.  Home Owner’s Associations or Neighborhood Watch organizations could likewise use this reporting tool for their communities.  The possibilities and opportunities are vast!  If you’d like to discuss applying this to your organization, please contact us.