When companies take work to the ends of the earth, communication reliability goes out the window, especially in areas struck by wars or disasters. For professionals determined to maintain contact, whatever the conditions, satellite data terminals are the ultimate backup plan.
On a recent reporting trip to Haiti, I packed a BGAN Explorer 500 Satellite Data Terminal from Inmarsat. It was on loan to ENR so I could test it for business continuity. GIT Satellite Communications, Austin, Texas, provided support. My intent was to maintain connectivity, whatever the conditions, just as firms deploying for reconstruction in Haiti—or anywhere else—might need to do.