Copyright GeoComm, Inc. All rights reserved.
Thank you for visiting the GeoComm Web site. There is more going on in
public safety communications than at any other time in recent memory. The
flurry of activity that resulted from September 11, 2001 has not let up
although as an industry we have become better at managing the new
"normal" and positioning public safety issues in the public spotlight.
To that end, GeoComm provides expert consulting services to all types of
public safety agencies. Our clients engage us for one of two primary
reasons. Either the agency lacks the technical expertise on-staff or lacks
the time to be able to focus on a specific project. Regardless of the reason,
it is GeoComm's mission to provide unparalleled services at a reasonable
cost.
In addition to generally increased activity, there are a number of "hot issues"
in the industry. I thought it would be helpful to list the top three challenges
being faced by agencies throughout the country.
Narrowbanding
In December 2004, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
mandated that all private Land Mobile Radio (LMR) users operating below
512 MHz move to 12.5 kHz narrowband voice channels and highly efficient
data channel operations by January 1, 2013. The countdown clock on this
page indicates just how little time remains to plan, budget, and execute a
narrowbanding transition.
Wireless 9-1-1 Accuracy
After investment of significant public funds, many agencies have completed
their implementation of wireless 9-1-1. In almost all cases, the
implementation included an acceptance test plan to validate the appropriate
routing of wireless 9-1-1 calls. There are so many variables in the wireless
and 9-1-1 networks and so many system expansions occurring on a regular
basis that on-going routing and location accuracy testing is crucial to ensure
citizens are receiving a return on their investments.
Next Generation 9-1-1
The importance of accurate and well maintained GIS data cannot be
overemphasized. Before long- MSAGs will be a thing of the past and a
community's GIS data will be the basis of all 9-1-1 call delivery. If your
agency has not already done so, it is crucial to begin developing GIS data
for use in public safety. Just as importantly, a long-term commitment to
maintaining this data must be made. Even in the smallest, most rural
community - verification of data and ongoing updates are crucial to effective
public safety services.
Our approach is to partner with you for successful completion of your public
safety projects and to meet your goals. Our experienced, expert staff will
enjoy working for you.
Please do not hesitate to contact us to request additional information on
how we can help you with the above listed items and more.
Your Partner in Success
“GeoComm’s GIS consultant Kathy Liljequist, GISP, is one of the nicest, most knowledgeable
people I have ever met within the public safety field. She is definitely an asset to our organization.
I look forward to working with her and GeoComm in the future.”
– Fred Rosencrans, Luzerne County Data Manager and Technical Support Supervisor
Luzerne County 9-1-1
Public Safety Consulting
Product Information
Articles & Case Studies
Greg Ballentine
Director of Consulting Services
gballentine@geo-comm.com
Past-President of APCO
Former Director of Public Safety, Mid-America
Regional Council (MARC)