Narrowband  |  2026-01-30

CMA Survey Highlights Key Drivers Behind Adoption of Paging and Dedicated Networks

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

Evidence shows that achieving higher levels of service resilience is more cost-effective through the combination of multiple, fully independent technologies than by further hardening a single network

A recent global survey and expert consultation conducted by the CMA (Critical Messaging Association) highlights a steady increase in the use of alternative mobile communication services—such as paging, dedicated radio networks, and related technologies—across critical sectors worldwide.

The findings underline a shared conclusion among users, operators, integrators, and technology providers: independence from conventional cellular networks is a key driver in purchasing and deployment decisions.

The study emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between different stakeholder perspectives. End users, who rely on these services in daily operations, prioritize reliability, ease of use, and device performance. Decision-makers, by contrast, focus on resilience, long-term value, and risk mitigation. Understanding both viewpoints is essential to explaining why alternative communication services continue to gain traction.

Insights were further informed by an international gathering of critical messaging experts held in London in late 2025, following previous editions in Paris, Berlin, and Amsterdam. Participants represented manufacturers, system integrators, network operators, investors, and consultants from Europe and North America. Discussions centered on technology evolution, operational experience, and the increasing relevance of maintaining a second, independent mobile infrastructure alongside public cellular networks.

Through expert forums and surveys conducted during the event, several core factors influencing adoption emerged consistently across regions:

  • Proven solutions and expertise: Long-established standards, decades of operational experience, and globally recognized technologies were ranked as the most important considerations.
  • Efficient transmission: Fast, simultaneous message delivery to large numbers of recipients—even under adverse conditions—remains a critical requirement.
  • Dedicated end devices: Separate, purpose-built terminals with long battery life and high reliability are valued, particularly in mission-critical environments.
  • Extensive radio coverage: Cost-effective deployment, strong indoor penetration, and dependable coverage in challenging locations were identified as decisive advantages.

While regional differences exist, case examples from Europe and North America demonstrate a common pattern: organizations increasingly favor dedicated and independent communication networks for applications such as emergency services, healthcare, public warning systems, and infrastructure monitoring. In many instances, these solutions are complemented by mission-critical cellular services rather than replaced by them.

A central conclusion of the survey is economic as well as technical. Evidence shows that achieving higher levels of service resilience is more cost-effective through the combination of multiple, fully independent technologies than by further hardening a single network. This approach significantly increases overall reliability while controlling costs.

Overall, the findings suggest that alternative mobile communication services are not a legacy option but a strategic component of modern, resilient communication architectures. As organizations continue to prioritize continuity, security, and reliability, independent communication solutions are expected to play an increasingly important role worldwide.