Page 86 - JSOM Winter 2024

privacy-centric features have bolstered its reputation as a se-
cure and private messaging tool. 5
Messaging apps are an effective means for users to connect,
communicate, and share media. In military environments,
where privacy and security are paramount, adherence to situa-
tional guidelines and clear communication expectations set by
leaders is essential. Given the sensitivity of operations, priori-
tizing privacy becomes imperative for military personnel when
selecting communication applications. Choosing applications
that offer robust privacy and security features is crucial, en-
FIGURE 2 The infographic suring the protection of sensitive information. Leaders must
shared two days later to provide verify that chosen applications align with operational security
follow-up information and requirements to safeguard confidentiality effectively.
strategies to protect personnel.
Value of Off-the-Shelf Applications
Off-the-shelf applications offer advantages in demanding con-
ditions such as disaster response and military operations. Their
user-friendly nature requires minimal technical expertise, en-
abling swift adoption. Ease of use expedites communication
and collaboration, ensuring efficiency and seamless integra-
tion of new technologies.

Cost-effectiveness is another crucial benefit. Off-the-shelf ap-
plications provide affordable solutions compared with custom
software or hardware systems. With readily available options
for purchase or free download, significant investments in tech-
We have chosen not to include the names of specific applica- nical communication or design tools are minimized. Cost is es-
tions to avoid endorsing vendors or service providers. We in- pecially vital for organizations with limited budgets or during
tend to focus on the functionalities and capabilities of the tools emergencies, addressing the financial considerations of Service-
used rather than promoting any specific brand. This approach members who require assistance to cover equipment expenses
allows for a more objective discussion of the technologies em- personally.
ployed in our intervention.
Seamless communication between military personnel and civil-
Graphic Design Tools ian partners remains a persistent concern. Many off-the-shelf
An online graphic design tool was employed, without ex- applications are designed for cross-platform and cross-device
tensive design training, to create visually appealing designs. compatibility, promoting interoperability. Efficient communi-
The tool’s intuitive interface and drag-and-drop functionality cation empowers personnel to communicate and share infor-
of images, fonts, and design elements facilitated ease of use. mation effortlessly across devices and operating systems.
Users can choose from various professionally designed tem-
plates, such as social media posts, presentations, and posters. Moreover, off-the-shelf applications have many built-in fea-
The tool provides helpful features like alignment guides and tures and functionalities, providing comprehensive tools for
grid systems to assist users in creating visually balanced de- communication, collaboration, and design. These encompass
signs, making graphic design accessible to a broad audience by messaging, file sharing, video conferencing, document editing,
providing a seamless and straightforward design experience. and design templates. The availability of diverse capabilities
The use of this tool proved instrumental in rapidly creating within a single application streamlines operations, eliminating
visually attractive information graphics. These graphics cap- the need for multiple specialized tools. This simplifies logistics
tivated the attention of at-risk Servicemembers and facilitated and enhances overall efficiency.
the effective dissemination of risk-mitigating information (Fig-
ures 1 and 2). Deploying off-the-shelf applications in sensitive environments
requires careful consideration of security, network availability,
Messaging Applications and compatibility. Users must consider an app’s accessibility,
Messaging applications expedite communication through text user-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, interoperability, and swift
messages, voice calls, voice recordings, and media sharing. Ser- deployment capabilities. Features of the tools used during
vicemembers are provided an approved list of messaging apps Salaknib made them indispensable for effective communica-
based on concerns for privacy and security. tion and coordination in the dynamic contexts of disaster re-
sponse and military operations. 11–13
A messaging platform focused on privacy and security offered
features similar to other messaging applications. The platform Outcomes
provides end-to-end encryption and prioritizes user privacy. The team swiftly mobilized to ensure force health protection
The app’s default settings ensure that all messages are en- in the face of escalating GI complaints. Using readily avail-
crypted and accessible only to intended recipients. Addition- able graphic and messaging apps, they disseminated critical
ally, the app minimizes data collection, stores messages locally public health information and implemented an agile response
on users’ devices, and does not gather user metadata. These strategy. The team effectively shared infographics and vital

84 | JSOM Volume 24, Edition 4 / Winter 2024