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A Better Understanding of the Narrowbanding Mandate
through a Public Safety Radio Study
The upcoming Narrowbanding mandate brings a new set of regulations that may affect your public safety radio system. To comply with the deadline, many agencies are asking what their best approach is to meet all of the requirements.
To begin the process of complying with this mandate, Lincoln County, Washington first looked at the different aspects of their current public safety radio system. It was their hope that by examining the entire system they would have a clearer path to improving their current interoperability issues and a plan to comply with the FCC Narrowband Mandate. Additionally, the county wanted to identify the steps beyond narrowbanding they could take to modernize and upgrade their radio systems. Included within their project scope was an incremental roadmap that would aid in improving their radio system from where it was into the future of digital and regionally interoperable Public Safety radio systems. Lincoln County requested help from GeoComm to determine all of the steps needed to achieve these goals.
GeoComm’s study of the current system included reviewing the equipment used in the county, a review of the different radio channels being used, and a review of the coverage that was currently achieved by the equipment.
The equipment review identified the strengths and weaknesses that existed in approximately 600 pieces of radio equipment. From this equipment review, an assessment was created that outlined the communication infrastructure the county had in place and aided in determining if the equipment was compatible with the requirements for a Narrowband mode of operation. The current radio channels Lincoln County used was also reviewed to determine the strengths and weaknesses in the existing system. The technical information that was gathered in reference to the radio channels was compared to the county’s operating procedures which aided in providing recommendations for system improvements. In addition, the performance levels that the current radio system achieved was compared to the performance levels required to ensure adequate public safety response. This was reviewed to help alleviate the current spotty coverage the county was experiencing.
“Lincoln County selected GeoComm to complete an in-depth analysis of our existing radio systems. We requested they provide us with options and recommendations on how we could comply with the upcoming Narrowbanding mandate. After thoroughly reviewing our system and visiting with our responders, GeoComm’s staff provided us with a detailed report evaluating our current system as well as options and recommendations on how we can migrate our system to a Narrowband mode of operation.” Sheriff Wade Magers, Lincoln County, Washington.
Lincoln County’s public safety radio study examined their current and future mobile and portable coverage expectations. As a result of the study, the GeoComm project team provided recommended steps the county could take to improve regional interoperability and convert their radio system to comply with the Narrowband Mandate. Lincoln County no longer has to wonder how this new set of FCC regulations will affect them; they have a complete set of options including system upgrades and improvements outlining what they need to complete in order to meet the mandate.
Henderson County, Texas Benefits from the Addition of GeoLynx DMS
“Customer focused, knowledgeable, and professional,” those are just a few of the words Don Houston Director at Henderson County Texas 9-1-1 District uses to describe his impression of GeoComm. The relationship between the two agencies began in 2009 when GeoComm and Henderson County representatives met at the National NENA Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Houston felt that the meeting was “very informative and not full of confusing acronyms which was helpful to me as I was new to the 9-1-1 industry.” He also stated that “GeoComm’s ‘user-friendly’ approach from day one was the hook that first grabbed our attention. From there our relationship has been broadened through the level of knowledge professionalism, and quick problem resolution GeoComm brings to the relationship.”
Since this first meeting, Henderson County has gone on to utilize several of GeoComm’s products and services. Most recently the installation of GeoLynx DMS has aided them in managing their GIS data. “Our GIS Manager has had several conversations with GeoComm’s GeoLynx DMS Trainer and their technical support team to work through issues. All were focused on our needs not simply trying to squeeze our needs into their mold because one size does not fit all,” Houston stated.
By installing GeoLynx DMS, which is a tool bar within Esri ArcMap and specifically designed for maintaining GIS data, and the MSAG, Henderson County has been better equipped to map emergency calls. They specifically use this software to map wireline, wireless, and VoIP emergency call locations. The data is brought into their three primary PSAP’s, one backup PSAP, and their training PSAP. By utilizing some of the features in their software they are more efficiently able to update their existing GIS layers and it enhances their data maintenance with a higher level of accuracy.
“We are a small Emergency Service District, yet GeoComm continues to be very customer focused on our needs, even though we all understand we are not their largest customer. Being a user friendly organization is still important. GeoComm has not forgotten that very important part of customer service,” Houston stated. “We look forward to an upcoming scheduled training where a GeoLynx DMS Trainer will be onsite to provide us with advanced training so we can learn more about the product and increase our skills in other areas.”
In addition to GeoLynx DMS, Henderson County also has several licenses of GeoLynx Desktop, a Dispatch GIS software.
The Importance of a GIS Data Analysis
When GIS map data is integrated properly into a 9-1-1 system, it can provide lifesaving information. Ensuring your GIS map data is accurate is critical for efficient emergency response.
For Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), Geographic Information System (GIS) map data is essential for call routing, call handling, call delivery, location validation, and emergency response. It will also take over the role which the Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) fulfills in a traditional Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) system. This increases the need for accurate GIS map data and in turn requires the GIS map data to reflect the information contained in the MSAG.
An analysis is needed to verify whether the GIS map data is in sync with the MSAG and the caller location information from the Automatic Location Identification (ALI) database matches your GIS map data. A good starting point would be to have GeoComm analyze these three elements while you are examining your system options and preparing for the transition to NG9-1-1. This first step will help to lay the foundation for possible data updates to increase the data accuracy and synchronization rates.
GeoComm knows the importance of accurate data. Our goal is to help you improve the accuracy and synchronization of your GIS map data, ALI database, and MSAG. Hiring GeoComm to analyze your GIS map data for NG9-1-1 secures a proven public safety GIS partner for your agency. We will review and analyze each relevant GIS map data layer and the GIS map data in relation to your MSAG and ALI database. A detailed report will be provided that defines data inaccuracies and the degree of synchronization among these components and identifies enhancement suggestions that would increase the synchronization.
Our GIS staff is experienced. Having active participants in NENA workgroups who develop guidelines and standards for GIS map data and having been conducting these analyses for over a decade we will partner with you to ensure you have the tools needed to easily transition your GIS map data to NG9-1-1.
“Mendocino County, California contacted GeoComm to purchase GeoLynx 9-1-1 Software. In preparation for this Mendocino’s GIS map data, ALI data, Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) and CAD Geo files were analyzed. This analysis identified errors that occurred between the three layers during a 9-1-1 call so they could be corrected. After successfully completing the analysis we requested GeoComm to develop a Street Addressing layer due to a shortage of manpower and tight timeframes in our county. This new layer will not only be used in our mapping software but for our new CAD system scheduled to be installed later in the year. GeoComm demonstrated expertise in GIS and software installation where we felt comfortable requesting the Street Addressing layer development. We also need it very soon in preparation for a PSAP consolidated effort under way. Our timeframes have accelerated and we’re comfortable GeoComm can meet them as required.” Greg Blake - Mendocino County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center
The upcoming Narrowbanding mandate brings a new set of regulations that may affect your public safety radio system. To comply with the deadline, many agencies are asking what their best approach is to meet all of the requirements.
To begin the process of complying with this mandate, Lincoln County, Washington first looked at the different aspects of their current public safety radio system. It was their hope that by examining the entire system they would have a clearer path to improving their current interoperability issues and a plan to comply with the FCC Narrowband Mandate. Additionally, the county wanted to identify the steps beyond narrowbanding they could take to modernize and upgrade their radio systems. Included within their project scope was an incremental roadmap that would aid in improving their radio system from where it was into the future of digital and regionally interoperable Public Safety radio systems. Lincoln County requested help from GeoComm to determine all of the steps needed to achieve these goals.
GeoComm’s study of the current system included reviewing the equipment used in the county, a review of the different radio channels being used, and a review of the coverage that was currently achieved by the equipment.
The equipment review identified the strengths and weaknesses that existed in approximately 600 pieces of radio equipment. From this equipment review, an assessment was created that outlined the communication infrastructure the county had in place and aided in determining if the equipment was compatible with the requirements for a Narrowband mode of operation. The current radio channels Lincoln County used was also reviewed to determine the strengths and weaknesses in the existing system. The technical information that was gathered in reference to the radio channels was compared to the county’s operating procedures which aided in providing recommendations for system improvements. In addition, the performance levels that the current radio system achieved was compared to the performance levels required to ensure adequate public safety response. This was reviewed to help alleviate the current spotty coverage the county was experiencing.
“Lincoln County selected GeoComm to complete an in-depth analysis of our existing radio systems. We requested they provide us with options and recommendations on how we could comply with the upcoming Narrowbanding mandate. After thoroughly reviewing our system and visiting with our responders, GeoComm’s staff provided us with a detailed report evaluating our current system as well as options and recommendations on how we can migrate our system to a Narrowband mode of operation.” Sheriff Wade Magers, Lincoln County, Washington.
Lincoln County’s public safety radio study examined their current and future mobile and portable coverage expectations. As a result of the study, the GeoComm project team provided recommended steps the county could take to improve regional interoperability and convert their radio system to comply with the Narrowband Mandate. Lincoln County no longer has to wonder how this new set of FCC regulations will affect them; they have a complete set of options including system upgrades and improvements outlining what they need to complete in order to meet the mandate.
Henderson County, Texas Benefits from the Addition of GeoLynx DMS
“Customer focused, knowledgeable, and professional,” those are just a few of the words Don Houston Director at Henderson County Texas 9-1-1 District uses to describe his impression of GeoComm. The relationship between the two agencies began in 2009 when GeoComm and Henderson County representatives met at the National NENA Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Houston felt that the meeting was “very informative and not full of confusing acronyms which was helpful to me as I was new to the 9-1-1 industry.” He also stated that “GeoComm’s ‘user-friendly’ approach from day one was the hook that first grabbed our attention. From there our relationship has been broadened through the level of knowledge professionalism, and quick problem resolution GeoComm brings to the relationship.”
Since this first meeting, Henderson County has gone on to utilize several of GeoComm’s products and services. Most recently the installation of GeoLynx DMS has aided them in managing their GIS data. “Our GIS Manager has had several conversations with GeoComm’s GeoLynx DMS Trainer and their technical support team to work through issues. All were focused on our needs not simply trying to squeeze our needs into their mold because one size does not fit all,” Houston stated.
By installing GeoLynx DMS, which is a tool bar within Esri ArcMap and specifically designed for maintaining GIS data, and the MSAG, Henderson County has been better equipped to map emergency calls. They specifically use this software to map wireline, wireless, and VoIP emergency call locations. The data is brought into their three primary PSAP’s, one backup PSAP, and their training PSAP. By utilizing some of the features in their software they are more efficiently able to update their existing GIS layers and it enhances their data maintenance with a higher level of accuracy.
“We are a small Emergency Service District, yet GeoComm continues to be very customer focused on our needs, even though we all understand we are not their largest customer. Being a user friendly organization is still important. GeoComm has not forgotten that very important part of customer service,” Houston stated. “We look forward to an upcoming scheduled training where a GeoLynx DMS Trainer will be onsite to provide us with advanced training so we can learn more about the product and increase our skills in other areas.”
In addition to GeoLynx DMS, Henderson County also has several licenses of GeoLynx Desktop, a Dispatch GIS software.
The Importance of a GIS Data Analysis
When GIS map data is integrated properly into a 9-1-1 system, it can provide lifesaving information. Ensuring your GIS map data is accurate is critical for efficient emergency response.
For Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), Geographic Information System (GIS) map data is essential for call routing, call handling, call delivery, location validation, and emergency response. It will also take over the role which the Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) fulfills in a traditional Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) system. This increases the need for accurate GIS map data and in turn requires the GIS map data to reflect the information contained in the MSAG.
An analysis is needed to verify whether the GIS map data is in sync with the MSAG and the caller location information from the Automatic Location Identification (ALI) database matches your GIS map data. A good starting point would be to have GeoComm analyze these three elements while you are examining your system options and preparing for the transition to NG9-1-1. This first step will help to lay the foundation for possible data updates to increase the data accuracy and synchronization rates.
GeoComm knows the importance of accurate data. Our goal is to help you improve the accuracy and synchronization of your GIS map data, ALI database, and MSAG. Hiring GeoComm to analyze your GIS map data for NG9-1-1 secures a proven public safety GIS partner for your agency. We will review and analyze each relevant GIS map data layer and the GIS map data in relation to your MSAG and ALI database. A detailed report will be provided that defines data inaccuracies and the degree of synchronization among these components and identifies enhancement suggestions that would increase the synchronization.
Our GIS staff is experienced. Having active participants in NENA workgroups who develop guidelines and standards for GIS map data and having been conducting these analyses for over a decade we will partner with you to ensure you have the tools needed to easily transition your GIS map data to NG9-1-1.
“Mendocino County, California contacted GeoComm to purchase GeoLynx 9-1-1 Software. In preparation for this Mendocino’s GIS map data, ALI data, Master Street Address Guide (MSAG) and CAD Geo files were analyzed. This analysis identified errors that occurred between the three layers during a 9-1-1 call so they could be corrected. After successfully completing the analysis we requested GeoComm to develop a Street Addressing layer due to a shortage of manpower and tight timeframes in our county. This new layer will not only be used in our mapping software but for our new CAD system scheduled to be installed later in the year. GeoComm demonstrated expertise in GIS and software installation where we felt comfortable requesting the Street Addressing layer development. We also need it very soon in preparation for a PSAP consolidated effort under way. Our timeframes have accelerated and we’re comfortable GeoComm can meet them as required.” Greg Blake - Mendocino County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center
Visit us at these upcoming tradeshows:
June
Minneapolis, MN
6/18-6/23
FCC Narrowbanding
Mandate
Deadline January 1, 2013
Henderson County, North Carolina - NG9-1-1 GIS Maintenance
Are you wondering how the FCC Narrowbanding mandate applies to your agency?
Is figuring out the details and what you need to do too time consuming or mind boggling?
We can help. Our consultants are familiar with the mandate and its affects. Since it was enacted, we have been working with public safety agency clients to ensure their compliance.
Deadline January 1, 2013
Henderson County, North Carolina - NG9-1-1 GIS Maintenance
Are you wondering how the FCC Narrowbanding mandate applies to your agency?
Is figuring out the details and what you need to do too time consuming or mind boggling?
We can help. Our consultants are familiar with the mandate and its affects. Since it was enacted, we have been working with public safety agency clients to ensure their compliance.
July
San Diego, CA
7/10-7/15
For more information visit:
http://www.geo-comm.com/eclockti
cking.html
GeoComm GIS Trivia
Almost 165,000 square miles is covered by GeoComm’s GIS maintenance clients. That is enough square miles to cover California, the country’s third largest state in size.
Customer Testimonials
“On paper, many firms look similar and it's frequently difficult to measure certain intangibles like project management, communication or culture until you actually begin working with them. We've been very impressed by the professional and responsive nature of GeoComm's staff. Communication has been consistent, frequent and well prepared in the form of project status reports, conference calls, and day-to-day contact as tasks require it. In short, our working relationship with GeoComm has been effortless which has made them seem like an extension of our own staff.”
Ray Weiser- GIS Coordinator, Scott County, Iowa
_______________________
"GeoComm was handed a challenge. Their staff has done an excellent job from the start to help the county through every hurdle that we have thrown at them. Jefferson County has looked at many reverse 9-1-1 systems. The GeoLynx EOC package was a perfect fit for us. The EOC package has allowed us to operate from our main emergency operations center (EOC) and if needed, our mobile EOC trailer which will greatly improve the safety of our responders and the citizens in the county. Since installation we have used many of the GeoLynx products we have purchased during incident responses. Improved accuracy during 9-1-1 calls and plotting a safe and quick route through GeoLynx Mobile for responders. There are so many more things that GeoComm and their products have done for us it is more than space will allow. What we can do is recommend to any county or city to look into their products. You won't be disappointed.”
John McKee - Emergency Management Director, Jefferson County, Nebraska
GeoComm GIS Trivia
Almost 165,000 square miles is covered by GeoComm’s GIS maintenance clients. That is enough square miles to cover California, the country’s third largest state in size.
Customer Testimonials
“On paper, many firms look similar and it's frequently difficult to measure certain intangibles like project management, communication or culture until you actually begin working with them. We've been very impressed by the professional and responsive nature of GeoComm's staff. Communication has been consistent, frequent and well prepared in the form of project status reports, conference calls, and day-to-day contact as tasks require it. In short, our working relationship with GeoComm has been effortless which has made them seem like an extension of our own staff.”
Ray Weiser- GIS Coordinator, Scott County, Iowa
_______________________
"GeoComm was handed a challenge. Their staff has done an excellent job from the start to help the county through every hurdle that we have thrown at them. Jefferson County has looked at many reverse 9-1-1 systems. The GeoLynx EOC package was a perfect fit for us. The EOC package has allowed us to operate from our main emergency operations center (EOC) and if needed, our mobile EOC trailer which will greatly improve the safety of our responders and the citizens in the county. Since installation we have used many of the GeoLynx products we have purchased during incident responses. Improved accuracy during 9-1-1 calls and plotting a safe and quick route through GeoLynx Mobile for responders. There are so many more things that GeoComm and their products have done for us it is more than space will allow. What we can do is recommend to any county or city to look into their products. You won't be disappointed.”
John McKee - Emergency Management Director, Jefferson County, Nebraska
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