Navigating Turbulent Waters: Using Technology to Enhance Crisis Communications Preparedness and Response

A FREE virtual event for PRSA Nashville Members on Thursday, Aug. 7 at Noon CDT

Navigating Turbulent Waters

Using Technology to Enhance Crisis Communications Preparedness and Response

Description

In this information-packed session, Deborah Hileman, SCMP FCSCE CCMC, CEO of the Institute for Crisis Management will talk about understanding today’s volatile environment and how it impacts crisis planning and preparedness, the importance of risk scanning and assessing organizational vulnerabilities, the role of predictive analytics, measuring crisis response and the key communications role of AI and crisis management technologies.

Agenda Highlights

• Understanding today’s risk landscape and crisis characteristics
• Conducting risk scans and vulnerability assessments
• Leveraging predictive analytics for early warning
• Using AI and natural language processing for listening and response analysis
• Exploring digital crisis management platforms
• Open Q&A for practical takeaways

Whether you’re updating an existing crisis plan or building one from scratch, this session offers actionable guidance on using technology to strengthen communication and resilience before, during and after a crisis.

About the Speaker

Deborah Hileman, SCMP, FCSCE, GCCC, is a respected leader in the global communications community with more than 35 years of experience across corporate, nonprofit, government and agency sectors. A FEMA-trained crisis expert and certified public information officer, she has served in national roles during major hurricanes and other large-scale emergencies.

Deb is the CEO of the Institute for Crisis Management® and will serve as the 2025–26 vice chair of the Global Communication Certification Council. She is an active member of PRSA and IABC and has led crisis communication training for professional groups across the country. Known for her engaging, down-to-earth teaching style, Deb brings both depth of knowledge and real-world insight to every session.