Abstract: In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, an alarm system comprising a controller unit, capable of interfacing with standard alarm sensors and existing alarm panels; a configuration mechanism (such as a web site) through which a user can configure notification parameters and/or contact methods for the different types of events, and an automated dispatching mechanism which serves to make contact with the user, or others designated by the user, as defined by the configuration mechanism, along with data corresponding to the event (e.g., camera image when sensor trips).