Alertus & Owl Alert Training Plan

Description

Alertus is an enterprise desktop notification system used to send emergency messages across campus computers and displays. It ensures urgent alerts can be quickly delivered during emergencies or critical incidents.

Owl Alert is the college’s emergency messaging system that sends notifications through text messages and email. It is used to inform the campus community about weather closures, delays, emergencies, and major service disruptions.

Goals

  • Staff will understand the purpose and importance of emergency notification systems used by the college.
  • Staff will know how Alertus and Owl Alert function to communicate urgent campus information.
  • Staff will have access to training resources explaining system functionality and emergency communication procedures.
  • Staff will be encouraged to register for emergency notifications to ensure timely receipt of important alerts.

Objectives

Staff will be able to:

  • Identify the purpose of Alertus as a desktop mass notification system.
  • Explain how Owl Alert provides emergency notifications through text and email.
  • Recognize the types of alerts distributed through campus emergency communication systems.
  • Understand how emergency notification systems support campus safety and emergency response.
  • Register for Owl Alert to receive emergency notifications.
  • Access available training and vendor resources related to the Alertus system.

Training Delivery Methods

  • Awareness sessions
  • Self-paced informational resources
  • Vendor training materials
  • Reference documentation

Training

Awareness Training

Campus Emergency Notification Overview

This informational session introduces the emergency communication systems used by PGCC and explains how they support campus safety during emergencies and disruptions.

Topics include:

  • Overview of Alertus desktop notification system
  • Overview of Owl Alert messaging system
  • Types of emergency notifications
  • Importance of registering for alerts

On Demand (Self-paced modules)

Alertus Certified Technical Training Video

A vendor-provided video explaining how the Alertus system functions and how administrators can manage alerts.


Alertus Webinars and Technical Documentation

Vendor-hosted learning materials covering system features, configuration, and best practices.

Resources

  • Alertus Resource Center Provides access to technical documentation, webinars, and frequently asked questions related to the Alertus notification system.
  • PGCC Owl Alert Registration Staff are encouraged to register for Owl Alert to receive emergency notifications related to weather, safety alerts, and campus operational updates.
  • Emergency Preparedness Information Additional campus resources that provide guidance on emergency procedures and safety communications.

Have Questions

  • For technology training concerns and resources, contact: TTMD@PGCC.edu (Technology Training and Multimedia Development)
  • For non-training related IT questions and login/access issues, contact Technology Service Desk at 301-546-0637