By: Darlene Cotterill

Most people first encounter public address (PA) systems in schools. They are familiar tools—used for morning announcements, schedule changes, or emergency drills. But while their importance in education is well established, the need for PA systems in commercial environments is frequently underestimated.

In reality, PA and intercom systems are not just operational conveniences—they are essential components of a comprehensive communication and safety strategy. As businesses grow more complex and risk-aware, public address solutions are becoming indispensable.

The Expanding Role of PA Systems in Business

Public address systems in commercial buildings serve two fundamental purposes: daily operational communication and emergency preparedness. Their impact on business continuity, safety, and efficiency is well documented:

• Operational Efficiency – In workplaces with multiple departments, floors, or buildings, PA systems enable rapid communication to staff and visitors alike. They support coordination, scheduling, and facility-wide announcements without dependence on mobile devices or email.

• Emergency Response – In critical scenarios—such as fire alarms, natural disasters, or security threats—PA systems allow for real-time evacuation instructions and situational updates. Voice announcements offer clarity that alarms alone cannot.

• Access and Security Integration – Intercom-enabled systems provide secure two-way communication at entrances or restricted areas, improving access control and reducing unauthorized entry risks.

The Market Reflects the Need

The demand for PA and emergency communication systems is rising sharply. According to Allied Market Research, the global market for public address and voice alarm systems was valued at $4.0 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $9.1 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%. This growth is driven by adoption across sectors such as commercial real estate, manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

The need is especially evident in the public sector. A report by SDM Magazine observed that many schools use separate systems for public announcements and emergency alerts—an arrangement that often causes confusion during critical incidents. This same fragmentation exists in many commercial properties, exposing organizations to unnecessary risk.

Why Telecor

Selecting the right PA system provider is crucial. Telecor offers a unique value proposition that addresses the operational, financial, and strategic needs of modern businesses.

• North American Manufacturing – Telecor designs and manufactures its systems domestically. This ensures supply chain reliability, predictable lead times, and protection from international tariffs and regulatory disruptions.

• Integrated Communication Solutions – Telecor systems are engineered for seamless integration with emergency alert systems, access control infrastructure, and networked communication platforms.

• Proven Performance in High-Stakes Environments – For decades, Telecor has delivered robust communication systems to institutions with the highest standards, including hospitals, government buildings, school districts, and corporate campuses.

• Scalability and Customization – Whether it’s a single facility or a distributed enterprise, Telecor systems are modular and scalable, supporting long-term growth and operational flexibility.

The Bottom Line

Public address systems are no longer optional for businesses. They are mission-critical infrastructure for communication, coordination, and crisis management. Ignoring this need can lead to avoidable delays, confusion, and liability during emergencies.

Organizations that recognize this reality are investing not only in equipment, but in resilience. Telecor stands out as the intelligent choice for institutions seeking a secure, scalable, and domestically manufactured solution.

Contact us to learn more about how Telecor can support your facility’s communication and safety strategy.

Darlene Cotterill is the VP of Sales USA for Telecor Inc., a leading North American manufacturer with over 45 years of experience providing innovative daily and emergency communication systems for schools, healthcare, commercial and government facilities worldwide.  With more than 25 years in low-voltage integration and technical solution sales, Darlene works with customers to design layered communication solutions supporting safety strategies and emergency preparedness.