NG9-1-1 Ready Data

One of the key elements for GIS data in an NG9-1-1 environment is synchronization among the GIS data, MSAG, and ALI database. GIS data traditionally plays a role in public safety for geographically locating 9-1-1 callers. In the NENA i3 Next Generation 9-1-1 architecture, all calls are routed to PSAPs based on location, including wireline 9-1-1 calls. This presents new challenges and requirements for local and regional GIS data planning and management. Not only is GIS data important when the call is received in the PSAP for locating the caller, it is now also important for routing the call to the correct PSAP prior to the call being answered.

To this point, the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) created a workgroup to develop a GIS, MSAG, and ALI database synchronization operations information document (OID). This document will act as a guideline for determining how synchronized your data is and the level to which your data should be synchronized.

In public safety, the goal is to accurately pinpoint the location of the caller in distress. Time equals lives when responding to your residents on the other end of a 9-1-1 call. Using accurately developed GIS data with specific functionality related to 9-1-1 the GIS data will help you locate the caller by routing to the correct PSAP and locating them on the dispatch GIS. This will eliminate the need to guess, rely on caller provided location and directions, or use your community location.

The ALI database and MSAG are particularly important in a system where calls plot on GIS map data. The ALI database contains Automated Location Identification - the physical addresses for each wireline telephone subscriber in the jurisdiction. This information is transmitted through the telephone lines when a 9-1-1 call is placed. The address from the ALI database must have a street name that matches one in the MSAG and a house number which falls within the high and low address ranges for the same MSAG record. If so, the ALI information is assigned an Emergency Service Number (ESN) which identifies what emergency service agencies should respond to the call. The information is then passed onto the PSAP to plot on the GIS map data in your dispatch mapping software.

As technology continues to become more complex it is critical that your GIS data and associated databases are as accurate and robust as possible. Correctly routing calls to the appropriate PSAP and providing accurate location information to responders is more important than ever and having an accurate GIS database is a must. This means that maintenance processes and regular data reviews should be a part of every 9-1-1 GIS data program. By starting to prepare for the coming of Next Generation technology you not only improve your location based information for responders now, you can ensure a more seamless transition to advanced technologies as you will have already put in place a solid GIS maintenance and data review program.

GeoComm can help you:

Analyze your data to ensure a high rate of synchronization
Educate your team regarding the errors, the fallout (unsynchronized) data, and the importance of accuracy and synchronization
Understand the implications of unsynchronized data versus synchronized data
Determine what steps to take to ensure your data is accurate and synchronized
Assist in determining what, if any, additional GIS data layers may help provide pertinent information to your dispatchers and responders
Work with your team to create a maintenance process and regular data review process to ensure 9-1-1 GIS and database accuracy

GeoComm provides several levels of GIS and GIS maintenance process analysis. These options range from an analysis in the form of a data report card that gives you a high level overview regarding the status of your data or in the form of a full analysis with a report that outlines all of the results. In addition to the analyses, GeoComm can review your current GIS maintenance program and provide process recommendations from address assignment to updating GIS at your PSAP or communications center. GeoComm also recommends ways to correct any data errors determined. It is then up to you how you will proceed. Either your GIS staff can make the needed adjustments or GeoComm can provide the GIS services to ensure your data is up-to-date and synchronized.

NG9-1-1 Ready Data

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