Hello mm43.
In emergencies, things need to get simple. I agree with you of course that change can be glacial in the industry.
Nothing focuses one's attention more than execution at dawn. It is tempting to rely far too much on ACARS in this specific accident. It was rather a fluke the data was made public. Without it, the several searches would have been even more broad and haphazard.
A more intensive data link triggered on Pilot/A/C thresholds could of course be route specific, the equipment made modular, and training would be somewhat straightforward. It is too much to ask, even with a fully cooperative roster of players.
Beyond this is the capability of displaying absolutely essential flight data to the cockpit as well. No offense intended.
bear