External Alerts

What it is

MiConnect doesn’t just activate internal devices — it also has multiple ways to send alerts outward to staff, IT systems, and external platforms.
These external alerts make MiConnect part of a bigger ecosystem, ensuring the right people and systems get notified instantly when an event occurs.

What it can do – We covered these types of communication in the first module.

• Webhooks

  • Send real-time data payloads (JSON/XML) to external platforms.

  • Example: Vape detector triggers → webhook pushes alert into Microsoft Teams, Slack, or ActivePieces.

• APIs (Application Programming Interfaces)

  • Every MiConnect action (e.g., /SIGN/EVAC, /SIREN/HIGH) can be triggered by an external system via API.

  • Example: CCTV analytics system detects motion → API call activates sirens and strobes.

• SMS/GSM (Short Message Service / Global System for Mobile Communications)

  • Built-in GSM module handles SMS in/out without third-party gateways.

  • Example: Fire alarm triggers → SMS sent directly to staff mobiles.

  • Example: Principal texts “LOCKDOWN” → MiConnect instantly activates lockdown sequence.

What sets it apart

• Multiple outbound paths — MiConnect doesn’t rely on just one notification method.

• Native GSM SMS — no need for complex integrations like Barix + Syn-Apps or SIP-to-SMS gateways.

• Real-time IT integration — APIs and webhooks tie MiConnect into modern digital ecosystems (Teams, security dashboards, workflow automation).

Why we developed it

Legacy PA and tone systems were closed loops — they could make noise, but they couldn’t tell IT staff, security, or principals what was happening.
Modern schools and enterprises needed a system that:

• Talks to people (via SMS).

• Talks to systems (via APIs/webhooks).

• Can be automated into wider workflows (security, automation, IT alerts).

That’s why MiConnect was designed with outbound flexibility from day one.

Metaphor

👉 Think of MiConnect like a megaphone that can also send text messages.

• The megaphone = sirens, PA, and signage shouting to people onsite.

• The text messages = webhooks, APIs, and SMS making sure the IT team, principal, or security contractor all get the alert too.