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Interoperability Strategic Vision: A GMLC White Paper

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"This Interoperability Strategic Vision whitepaper aims to promote a common understanding of the meaning and characteristics of interoperability and to provide a strategy to advance the state of interoperability as applied to integration challenges facing grid modernization. This includes addressing the ease and reliability of integrating devices and systems and the discipline to improve the process of successfully integrating these components as business models and information technology improve over time. The strategic vision for interoperability described in this document applies throughout the electric energy generation, delivery, and end-use supply chain. Its scope includes interactive technologies and business processes from the bulk power transmission system level to the lower voltage distribution system level and to the millions of appliances that are becoming equipped with processing power and communication interfaces. A transformational aspect of a vision for interoperability in the future electric system is coordinated operation of intelligent devices and systems at the edges of the grid infrastructure."

United States. Department of Energy; Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (U.S.)

2018-03
DHS OEC FY2019 TA/SCIP Guide: Highlights & Offerings

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From the Foreword: "The Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) is pleased to publish the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Technical Assistance (TA)/Statewide Communication Interoperability Plan (SCIP) Guide. This year's Guide includes new or enhanced offerings and approaches to help public safety and government officials meet the challenges in the rapidly changing voice and data interoperability landscape and the expanding communications ecosystem. Public safety has seen a rapid expansion in recent years in the type and manner of information sharing among responders and government officials. New applications and systems have created new challenges for interoperability. It demands good governance to drive standard operating procedures on how to use these technologies, and then joint training and exercises to ensure interoperability is achieved when needed most - at the next incident or event. In FY2019, OEC will continue delivering products and services that support interoperability in this evolving emergency communications ecosystem."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office of Emergency Communications

2018-10
CWID Brings Technology, Military Together for Homeland Defense [podcast]

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In this podcast, a Navy Petty Officer First Class from the USNORTHCOM Public Affairs Office discusses the Coalition Warrior Interoperability Demonstration (CWID), which "allows military, state, and local operators, along with international partners, to test new technologies designed to solve the communications and coordination difficulties between multiple federal, state, local and military responders." Various participants discuss the different elements of CWID, as well as the importance of interoperability with different agencies. The podcast runs 4 minutes, 18 seconds long. Quicktime, ITunes, or Windows Media Player is required to play the file, which will begin playing immediately upon clicking the link.

United States. Northern Command

2007-07-03
Public Safety Interoperable Communications Grant Program: Improving Interoperable Communications Nationwide: Overview of Initial State and Territory Investments

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"The Federal Government has recognized that communications interoperability among public safety agencies is a critical element in emergency response. In recognition of the need to improve the interoperability of public safety communications nationwide, the Department of Commerce (DOC), in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has established and implemented a $1 billion grant program to assist public safety agencies in enhancing communications interoperability nationwide. Through cooperative development, the DOC National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the DHS Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate (GPD) have designed the Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) Grant Program. PSIC is a grant program that is solely focused on interoperable and emergency communications and represents the largest single infusion of Federal funding for State, Territory, and local communications interoperability. [...] The ultimate goal of the PSIC Grant Program is to have a substantial, nationwide influence on public safety communications interoperability. This report illustrates the Investments State and local public safety agencies are making to achieve greater interoperability and to advance the Nation's goal of improved preparedness and response."

United States. Department of Homeland Security; United States. National Telecommunications and Information Administration

2008-11
Statewide Communications Interoperability Planning (SCIP) Methodology v2.0: A Collaborative Approach to Statewide Communications Interoperability Planning

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"To successfully respond to day-to-day incidents and large-scale emergencies, our Nation's emergency responders need interoperable communications-the ability to exchange voice and data information across disciplines and jurisdictions on demand, in real time, and when authorized. Through its SAFECOM and Disaster Management (DM) programs, the Department of Homeland Security's Office for Interoperability and Compatibility (OIC) is working with practitioners and Federal partners to strengthen interoperability in order to improve local, tribal, state, and Federal emergency response and preparedness. Together, SAFECOM and DM are providing emergency responders with the resources-tools, templates, best practices, methodologies-they need to address voice and data interoperability respectively. With support from the SAFECOM program, in 2004 the Commonwealth of Virginia developed a strategic plan to improve statewide interoperable communications. In keeping with SAFECOM's practitioner-driven philosophy, Virginia developed its statewide plan using a locally-driven approach. This approach ensured that the plan met end-user needs and included perspectives of emergency responders at all levels of government. Based on the success of Virginia's strategic planning process, SAFECOM developed the Statewide Communications Interoperability Planning (SCIP) Methodology, a step-by-step planning guide all states can use to develop a locally-driven statewide strategic plan. We encourage states to use this methodology in their statewide planning efforts. The SCIP Methodology has since been implemented in The Commonwealth of Kentucky and the State of Nevada. As such, it has been updated to include the lessons learned and additional insights from those two statewide planning processes. Version 2 of the SCIP also includes an explanation of the Interoperability Continuum, which was created to assist in the development of a comprehensive communications interoperability solution."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Science and Technology Directorate

2006
Interoperability Continuum: A Tool for Improving Emergency Response Communications and Interoperability

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"Emergency responders--emergency medical services (EMS), fire-rescue personnel, and law enforcement officers--need to share vital data or voice information across disciplines and jurisdictions to successfully respond to day-to-day incidents and large-scale emergencies. Many people assume that emergency response agencies across the Nation are already interoperable. In actuality, emergency responders often cannot talk to some parts of their own agencies--let alone communicate with agencies in neighboring cities, counties, or states. Developed with practitioner input by the Department of Homeland Security's SAFECOM program, the Interoperability Continuum is designed to assist emergency response agencies and policy makers to plan and implement interoperability solutions for data and voice communications. This tool identifies five critical success elements that must be addressed to achieve a sophisticated interoperability solution: governance, standard operating procedures (SOPs), technology, training and exercises, and usage of interoperable communications. Jurisdictions across the Nation can use the Interoperability Continuum to track progress in strengthening interoperable communications."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Science and Technology Directorate

2008-04-15?
Public Safety Interoperable Communications Grant Program Improving Interoperable Communications Nationwide: Overview of Initial State and Territory Investments

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"The Federal Government has recognized that communications interoperability among public safety agencies is a critical element in emergency response. In recognition of the need to improve the interoperability of public safety communications nationwide, the Department of Commerce (DOC), in consultation with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has established and implemented a $1 billion grant program to assist public safety agencies in enhancing communications interoperability nationwide. [...] The ultimate goal of the PSIC [Public Safety Interoperable Communications] Grant Program is to have a substantial, nationwide influence on public safety communications interoperability. This report illustrates the Investments State and local public safety agencies are making to achieve greater interoperability and to advance the Nation's goal of improved preparedness and response."

United States. Department of Commerce; United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency

2008-11
Enhancing Communications Interoperability: General Guidance and Recommendations for Interoperability-related Governance

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"SAFECOM is a communications program of the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Office for Interoperability and Compatibility (OIC). SAFECOM provides--with its federal partners--research, guidance, tools, and templates on communications-related issues to local, tribal, state, and federal public safety agencies. SAFECOM believes that any successful effort to improve public safety communications interoperability must take into account the views of first responders on the front lines in large, small, rural, and urban communities across this Nation. This document presents general information about the role, structure, and operations of governing bodies charged with improving communications interoperability at the local, regional, tribal, or state level. Material and information presented here should be viewed as general guidance that individual communities should consider in establishing interoperability-related governance that reflects their specific needs. The material is organized as follows: 1, New Perspectives on Governance: An explanation of why sound governance is important, some common barriers to setting up governance structures, and how governance relates to the overall challenge of achieving communications interoperability. 2. The SAFECOM Approach: An overview of the general principles for sound governance developed and promulgated by SAFECOM. 3. Recommended Governance Structure: Characteristics of successful governance models, characteristics of effective bylaws, examples of governance roles and responsibilities, and a discussion of performance measures. 4. Conclusion: A summary of the general governance recommendations. 5. Appendix A: Governance in Action: A discussion of the lessons learned and methods used for communications interoperability governance models used by communities across the country."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. SAFECOM

2006-03-31
Public Safety Interoperable Communications Grant Program, Improving Interoperable Communications Nationwide: Overview of Initial State and Territory Investments

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"The PSIC Grant Program report, Improving Interoperable Communications Nationwide: Overview of Initial State and Territory Investments, describes trends in State, Territory, and local communications initiatives and the program's anticipated impact on interoperable communications across the Nation. This initial analysis represents lessons learned that will guide the management of the PSIC Grant Program moving forward and can inform future interoperable communications initiatives. The report's findings are based on the analysis of 281 individual PSIC Investments submitted by States and Territories. The PSIC Grant Program will continue to provide stewardship by monitoring project performance and providing assistance to grantees as these projects are implemented. The ultimate goal of the PSIC Grant Program is to have a substantial, nationwide influence on public safety communications interoperability. This report illustrates the Investments State and local public safety agencies are making to achieve greater interoperability and to advance the Nation's goal of improved preparedness and response. […]This report serves as a foundational document against which PSIC grantees' progress will be examined. It is intended that the findings will be periodically updated, as additional States are approved for the release of funds and as States modify their projects to respond to changing needs. Ongoing monitoring and assistance will be provided to grantees to support project implementation."

United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency; United States. National Telecommunications and Information Administration

2008-11
Beyond Technical Interoperability - Introducing a Reference Model for Measures of Merit for Coalition Interoperability

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From the Abstract: "Interoperability on the technical level is a hot topic since several decades. Despite the fact that several technical reference models to increase interoperability have been introduced, we are still waiting for working solutions. The reason may be, that interoperability is definitely not limited to the technical domain but is dependent on organizational aspects as well. To deal with these issues, they have to be perceived first. The recent CCRTS contributed to this very well. To overcome resulting questions, however, the influence must be captured in a reproducible way in form of measures of merit. Based on the experience in several international projects, the author developed a framework to deal with possible measures of merits to be used to deal with the various layers of semantic interoperability in coalition operations. The paper introduces this reference model, connects it to the recent discussions of measures of merits for C2 Assessment, and introduces some contributions to the discussions of measure for interoperability on various levels. Furthermore, some technical reference models will be mapped to this reference model to show that actual used legacy model results can be migrated, hence reused in this broader context."

Command and Control Research Program (U.S.)

Tolk, Andreas

2003-06-17
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Launches Office of Interoperability and Compatibility; Offers States and Locales Tools for Improving Public Safety Communications Interoperability [September 27, 2004]

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In this press release, Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge announces the October 1, 2004, launch of the Office of Interoperability and Compatibility, along with the release of tools designed to help state and local public safety practitioners improve communications interoperability. The Office of Interoperability and Compatibility (OIC), part of the Science & Technology directorate, will oversee the wide range of public safety interoperability programs and efforts currently spread across Homeland Security. These programs address critical interoperability issues relating to public safety and emergency response, including communications, equipment, training, and other areas as needs are identified.

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Press Office

2004-09-27
Border Interoperability Demonstration Project: Study on Rural and Urban Area Interoperability Solutions Along and Across International Borders

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From the Introduction: "Interoperable communications is a fundamental challenge to all public safety agencies. Border communities face additional challenges due to technical, operational, and policy differences on both sides of the border. The 5,500 miles of U.S.-Canadian border and the nearly 2,000 miles of U.S.-Mexican border offer a diverse array of geographies, languages, and operating environments that pose unique challenges to the federal, state, local, and tribal responders operating in the regions. Furthermore, border community populations vary widely from sparsely populated rural areas and towns to more densely populated cities and metropolitan hubs. Population density impacts the types of interoperable solutions that will be most effective for a particular community. The Border Interoperability Demonstration Project (BIDP), a one-time grant administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Emergency Communications (OEC), identified innovative solutions for improving interoperable communications along and across the border. One of BIDP's project objectives specifically focused on border communities of varying population densities to ensure that selected recipients included both rural and urban areas."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office of Emergency Communications

2017-05
C2 Interoperability: Simulation, Architecture and Information Security

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From the Abstract: "The intensity and frequency of joint and combined operations, including Operations Other Than War (OOTW), and the accelerating technological advances in Command and Control (C2) have highlighted C2 interoperability issues. Communications are increasingly software-driven, which makes the role of software architecture increasingly important in the design of interoperable communications systems. Simulation has an important role to play in defining and resolving interoperability issues stemming from requirements, policies, and procedures. Interoperability is such a challenge that the security implications of enhanced interoperability are often not considered. This paper suggests that the CCRP consider publishing a volume on C2 interoperability that codifies the body of knowledge developed by the JC2I2G offices. The paper is divided into the following sections: formation of the Joint Command and Control Integration Interoperability Group (JC2I2G) and the CINC Interoperability Program Offices (CIPOs), the software-driven interoperability domain, simulation and interoperability, software architecture, and interoperability and information security."

Command and Control Research Program (U.S.)

Hamilton, John A.; Melear, John; Endicott, George

2002
Creating a Charter for a Multi-Agency Communications Interoperability Committee: Template and Questions to Consider

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"With its Federal partners, SAFECOM and Disaster Management (DM) provides research, development, testing and evaluation, guidance, tools, and templates on communications-related issues to local, tribal, state, and Federal emergency response agencies. As communication programs of the Department of Homeland Security's Office for Interoperability and Compatibility, SAFECOM and DM are managed by the Science and Technology Directorate. OIC helps the public safety community and local, tribal, state, and Federal policy makers address critical elements for success as they plan and implement interoperability solutions. OIC works with the public safety community to encourage a shift from a technology-centric approach to a comprehensive focus on improving interoperability. Although technology is critical for improving interoperability, other elements, including governance, standard operating procedures, training and exercises, and usage of interoperable communications, play a vital role. To assist this shift to a comprehensive focus on interoperability, SAFECOM worked with public safety practitioners and local communities to develop a comprehensive framework called the Interoperability Continuum […]. SAFECOM developed the Interoperability Continuum in accordance with its locally driven philosophy and its practical experience in working with communities across the Nation. The Continuum visually depicts the core facets of interoperability according to the stated needs and challenges of the public safety community and aids the efforts of public safety practitioners and policy makers to improve interoperability. One of OIC's goals is to provide the public safety community with tools to improve all aspects of the Continuum. This tool focuses on the Governance element of the Continuum, specifically to help communities that are interested in creating a charter document for their multi-agency interoperability committee."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. SAFECOM

2006
Geospatial Interoperability Reference Architecture (GIRA): Increased Information Sharing Through Geospatial Interoperability

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"The Geospatial Interoperability Reference Architecture (GIRA) is aligned with current Federal policy, principles, and practices for Enterprise Architecture and further adds to the authoritative body of knowledge of geospatial architecture documentation. It is an unclassified document aimed at an audience consisting of; Executive Leaders, Program Managers, and Solution Architects across Federal, State, Local, Territorial and Tribal governments and private sector stakeholders. It is intended to be a practical roadmap to increase government geospatial information sharing through interoperable capabilities that result in reduced operational costs within and across mission systems. It documents geospatial and architecture policy alignment, references authoritative practices and provides practical guidance including; templates, charters, exchange agreements, baseline requirements matrices, architecture artifacts and tools. The GIRA is expected to have the following benefits: [1] Provide a reference guide for geospatial interoperable architectures to guide solutions to effectively govern, manage, support and achieve information sharing through geospatial system integration, acquisition and/ or development. [2] Provide documented architecture artifacts that can be used to support geospatial program technical oversight and technical assessments for geospatial investments. The GIRA provides a framework for the management, design and development of new or alignment of existing geospatial system/solution investments. It recommends guidance considerations in the areas of governance, business, data, applications/services, infrastructure, standards and security; and performance measures for validating and reporting results."

United States. Information Sharing Environment

2015
Establishing Governance to Achieve Statewide Communications Interoperability: A Guide for Statewide Communication Interoperability (SCIP) Implementation

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"In 2007, through its Directorate for National Protection and Programs, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) established the Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) to promote the ability of emergency responders and government officials to maintain communication in the event of natural disasters, act of terrorism, or other man-made disaster, and to ensure, accelerate, and attain interoperable and operable emergency communications nationwide. OEC, in conjunction with its Federal partners, provides guidance, tools, and templates on communications-related issues to Federal, State, local, and tribal emergency response agencies. Since its inception, OEC has operated under the principle that any successful effort to improve emergency response communications interoperability must take into account the views of emergency responders on the front lines in large, small, rural, and urban communities across the Nation. As outlined in the National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP), achieving the Nation's communications interoperability vision, goals, objectives, and priority initiatives is not a task the Federal Government can accomplish on its own--it is largely a practitioner-driven effort that requires coordination among all stakeholders."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office of Emergency Communications

2008-12
Interoperability Continuum Brochure: A Tool for Improving Response Communications and Interoperability

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The Interoperability Continuum is a tool designed to aid the emergency response community and local, tribal, state, and Federal policy makers and ensure they address critical elements for success as they plan and implement interoperability solutions. These elements include governance, standard operating procedures, technology, training and exercises, and usage of interoperable communications.

United States. Department of Homeland Security

2008-04-15?
Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) Interoperability: Are We There Yet?

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"Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) Interoperability: Are We There Yet?" is a thesis written by USAF (US Air Force) Major Brian J. Worth in pursuance of a M.M.A.S (Master of Military Art and Science) in General Studies. From the thesis abstract: "This study examines command, control, communications, computer, and intelligence (C4I) systems interoperability progress within the United States (U.S.) military services and amongst coalition partners since the year 2000. This study uses national military strategy, joint military strategy, service unique strategy and doctrine, Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) and Defense Integrated Military Human Resource System (DIMHRS) case studies, Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) technological standards, C4I technical reports to establish trends, patterns, and gaps in coalition interoperability. C4I interoperability successes are abundant since 2000 but it is clear from current day operations and research that the U.S., its allies and coalition partners need further improvements in order to master the many moving parts required for true coalition C4I systems interoperability. Clearly, acquisition, development, testing, and fielding must be fully integrated into either a joint or coalition solution. In order to achieve C4I interoperability, this study recommends changes in law, namely to the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 to further define the strategic intent of system interoperability among services of the DoD and foreign nations. Changes to national military strategy, joint military strategy, and service-unique military strategy are required to overhaul and emphasize the unequivocal need for fully interoperable C4I systems across the DoD and amongst coalition members. […] Training, operations and maintenance expenditures related to C4I across the services rise annually at exorbitant rates as authorized manpower shrinks and contractor support skyrockets. Efficiencies through standardization of training, joint operations and exercises, and common maintenance practices within DoD can yield substantial savings and concentrate efforts along similar planes. These efforts, along with a concerted C4I interoperability life cycle system, can yield the necessary interoperability to ensure warfighters of the future have at their disposal the most integrated, efficient, and lethal means of conducting military affairs."

U.S. Army Command and General Staff College

Worth, Brian J.

2008-06-13
Naval Logistics Integration Through Interoperable Supply Systems

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"This research investigates how the Navy and the Marine Corps could increase Naval Logistics Integration (NLI) through interoperable supply systems. The Navy and Marine Corps emphasize the integration of policy, doctrine, business processes, technologies, and systems as an enabler to strategic concepts such as Seabasing. Scholarly research indicates that systems such as the Global Combat Support System-Marine Corps (GCSS-MC) and Navy Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) will enable the Navy and Marine Corps to achieve interoperability with each other and the Joint force. While there is an abundance of literature pertaining to the theory of interoperability, nothing has been written that demonstrates interoperability between the Navy and Marine Corps supply systems. Using a problem solving approach, interoperability tests involving GCSS-MC, Navy ERP, Web- Standard Automated Logistics Tool Set (SALTS), and Navy One Touch Support (OTS) were conducted to confirm whether or not the Defense Automated Addressing System (DAAS) could be used to facilitate interoperability between these systems. Results of interoperability tests between GCSS-MC, Navy ERP, Web-SALTS, and Navy OTS suggest that DAAS can facilitate interoperability between supply systems. This research is significant because it provides actual test results with a baseline estimate of the amount of interoperability that exists between GCSS-MC and Navy ERP. This research also provides recommendations on how improve interoperability between GCSS-MC, Navy ERP, and other Joint supply systems."

U.S. Army Command and General Staff College; U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. School of Advanced Military Studies

Hunter, Alfred E.

2014-01
Regional Intrastate Governance Guide for Interoperable Emergency Communications Efforts

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"In 2008, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) released Establishing Governance to Achieve Statewide Communications Interoperability: A Guide for Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan (SCIP) Implementation. The Guide provides recommendations for implementing a robust, stakeholder-driven, statewide governance system focusing on interoperable emergency communications. Interoperable emergency communications refers to the ability of diverse emergency response organizations and systems to work together (interoperate). Central to the vision outlined in the Statewide Governance Guide is the creation of a collaborative statewide governance system where a Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC) serves as the binding entity for the statewide interoperable communications effort. A SWIC relies heavily upon the competence and motivation of State and local government officials with whom the SWIC coordinates but cannot directly control. Of course, all stakeholders face political, financial, and technical changes that often occur in the midst of planned implementation. The achievement of the vision, objectives, and milestones outlined in a State's strategic communications interoperability planning document, known as its SCIP, relies on multi-discipline and multi-jurisdictional coordination. The same holds true for the vision, goals, objectives, and priority initiatives outlined in the Nation's strategic plan for interoperable communications, the National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP). A coordinated stakeholder-driven approach will ensure the comprehensive implementation of communications interoperability strategies outlined within the NECP and each State's SCIP as well as those strategies outlined within Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI), regional, and local planning documents."

United States. Department of Homeland Security

2010-12
Recommended Federal Grant Guidance Emergency Response Communications and Interoperability Grants Fiscal Year (FY) 2007

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"This guidance reflects a comprehensive approach to interoperability-one that understands that the problem of interoperability is not solely technological. In reality, technology is just one of several critical elements necessary for the development of a robust interoperability solution. As Secretary Chertoff explained at the May 8, 2006 Tactical Interoperable Communications Conference, ..the biggest barrier to interoperability is not technology.[the challenge] has to do with, rather, human beings. It has to do with how do we get people to be able to use this equipment in a way that makes interoperability not just a theoretical possibility, or a technological possibility, but an actual, workable, day-to-day solution.' Achieving effective interoperability across the Nation requires dedicating resources to improving such critical elements as governance, standard operating procedures, training and exercises, and regular use of interoperable capabilities. Further, it requires strong leadership in and among organizations.leadership that promotes and engages in extensive, coordinated, multi-jurisdictional, and multi-disciplinary planning efforts for interoperability. This guidance provides Federal grant programs with recommended criteria to ensure that the limited funding available for emergency response communications is used in a way that targets all of the critical elements mentioned above. In addition, it provides the emergency response community with guidance, tools, and resources for the development of interoperability solutions."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. SAFECOM

2007
State and Local Law Enforcement Wireless Communications and Interoperability: A Quantitative Analysis

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This 1997 NIJ-sponsored study, conducted by the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center, focuses on interoperability issues in the law enforcement community. It is based on a mail survey of the interoperability experiences and needs of law enforcement agencies across the Nation. Four basic questions drove the research: What are the current and planned telecommunications capabilities of State and local law enforcement agencies? What is the knowledge and training level of State and local law enforcement agencies related to telecommunication technologies, information sources, and interoperability policies or issues? What is the nature and extent of law enforcement agencies' past and current interoperability experience and requirements? What is the nature and extent of interoperability shortfalls experienced by law enforcement agencies? This study confirmed much of what has been generally believed about police use of wireless communications equipment and interoperability. It also revealed some surprises. Fragmented spectrum and funding were identified as serious interoperability obstacles, and problems with channel congestion and outdated equipment were quantified. The study revealed trends related to the shift from analog to digital systems, high VHF to 800 MHz, and increasing use of spectrum for data transmissions related to the use of MDTs and laptop computers. Surprises include the extent to which agencies already have channels dedicated for interoperability, their general level of confidence in handling routine local interoperability events, and the relatively modest requests for additional channels. Non routine events remain a challenge for most agencies. Willingness to adopt interoperability standards is linked to funding issues.

National Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology Center (U.S.)

Tolman, Thomas K.; Epper, Robert C.; Taylor, Mary J.

1997
National Summary of Statewide Communication Interoperability Plans (SCIPs)

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"The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Emergency Communications (OEC) recognizes that technology plays a critical role in the achievement of communications interoperability; however, it remains equally important that the procedures and training emergency responders use are interoperable and compatible as well. Seamless communications interoperability will be achieved when emergency response officials can be deployed anywhere in the country, use his or her own radio to communicate with other responders, and use the compatible standard operating procedures (SOPs) he or she has been trained on in their respective jurisdictions. Statewide Communication Interoperability Plans (SCIPs) are a critical step in achieving communications interoperability not only within each State, but also across the country. The SCIP is a mechanism to align emergency responders at all levels in the State on a future vision for communications interoperability. Further, it serves as a roadmap for all agencies and jurisdictions in terms of the direction for moving forward and addressing communications interoperability issues at the State, regional, local, and tribal level. [...] This document also summarizes how the SCIPs currently have strategies that will align to the National Emergency Communications Plan (NECP). The NECP provides recommended initiatives to guide emergency response providers and relevant government officials in making measurable improvements in emergency communications capabilities. With the development and approval of all 56 SCIPs, the Nation has arrived at a crucial launching point for coordinating and improving statewide communications interoperability and planning efforts. This document presents the collective assessment of the current state of the Nation's emergency response interoperable communications and identifies initiatives to guide the Nation, States, localities, and tribes towards improved interoperable communications."

United States. Department of Homeland Security

2009-02
Developing Multi-Agency Interoperability Communications Systems: User's Handbook

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This handbook is the result of a developed and focused effort by the ODP to address interoperability and is intended to enhance communications among the numerous agencies who would respond to large-scale terrorism incidents or emergencies. This handbook provides pragmatic information and practical steps on setup and operation of a multi-agency interoperability communications system using the highly adaptable ACU-1000 Modular Interface/ Interconnect System (ACU-1000), and the TRP-1000 Transportable Radio Interconnect System (TRP-1000). Section Two, Introduction to Multiple Agency Interoperability, provides background on multiple agency interoperability communication along with basic information on the ACU/TRP-1000 Gateway Switch/ Interoperability Communications System, including a general overview of its operation. Section Three, Establishing an Interoperability System, outlines the basic set-up and initial operating procedures of the ACU/ TRP-1000 Interoperability Communication System. Section Four, Technical and Tactical Considerations, presents valuable insight and experience gained through a survey of jurisdictions that have had operational experience with the ACU/TRP-1000 Interoperability Communications Systems. Section Five, Operating System Models, is provided to further assist users involved in setting up their own multi-agency interoperability communication system. This section presents descriptions of setup and deployment by jurisdictions that are using the ACU/TRP-1000. These system models demonstrate the potential for achieving a high performance system. From these reviews, new users will be better prepared to set-up and operate comprehensive systems that take full advantage of the capabilities of the ACU/TRP-1000.

United States. Office of Justice Programs. Office for Domestic Preparedness
IDENT/IAFIS Interoperability

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"The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is working in collaboration with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of State (DOS) to define a plan for Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) and the Automated Biometric Identification System (IDENT) interoperability. […] DHS, DOJ, and DOS are working collaboratively to achieve interoperability between the Federal Bureau of Investigation's IAFIS and DHS' IDENT. Interoperability is defined as the sharing of alien immigration history, criminal history, and terrorist information based on positive identification and the interoperable capabilities of IDENT and IAFIS. In the Conferees Report of the DHS 2005 Appropriations Act and the DHS 2006 Appropriations House Report 109-79, Congress directed DHS to prepare a report on the status of IDENT I IAFIS, including: 1) Status of interoperability efforts; 2) Plan to achieve full interoperability; 3) Costs of interoperability; 4) Timetable for interoperability; 5) Responses to recommendations contained in the March 2004 DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) Report on IDENT I IAFIS; and 6) Response to the issues raised in the December 2004 DOJ OIG Report on !DENT I IAFIS. This report responds to the requirements, and reflects the DHS position, with general agreement of DOJ and DOS. DOJ and DOS have also been directed to provide a report to Congress on IDENT I IAFIS interoperability, among other things."

United States. Department of Homeland Security

2005-07
LLIS Lesson Learned: Interoperable Communications: Programming State and Local Interoperability Frequencies in Response Agencies' Radio Systems

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"Emergency response agencies should ensure that state and local interoperable frequencies are programmed into their radio systems. This can enhance interoperability and help personnel of different agencies communicate effectively during a response."

Lessons Learned Information Sharing (LLIS); United States. Federal Emergency Management Agency; United States. Department of Homeland Security

2010-11-19
Secure Communications Interoperability Evaluation Interim Report: Advanced Generation of Interoperability for Law Enforcement (AGILE)

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"This document describes the assembly and deployment of a communications interoperability capability designed for use in situations in which communications interoperability is required in conjunction with secure communications. The focus of this report is on a project conducted with the Syracuse, New York, Police Department, using an ACU-1000 Intelligent Interconnect System."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. SAFECOM

National Institute of Justice (U.S.). Agile Programs

2002-05-24
Interoperable Communications and Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan Exercises: Announcement

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Announcement of the launch of two resource pages on LLIS.gov: 'Interoperable Communications' and 'Tactical Interoperable Communications Plan Exercises.'

Lessons Learned Information Sharing (LLIS)
Interoperability: A Necessary Means Towards Operational Success in NATO

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From the thesis abstract: "Interoperability is the ability of services and allies to commingle systems, units, or forces which will enable them to operate effectively together. Interoperability should provide NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] commanders the necessary flexibility to concentrate sufficient combat forces at decisive points on the battlefield to deceive and surprise the THREAT while seizing the initiative. The corps seems to be the unit best organized to plan and execute an interoperable operation in NATO because the corps links tactical operations and strategic aims and is flexible enough to performs missions at the tactical and operational levels. This study uses a historical analysis of German Army operations in North Africa and on the eastern front during World War II. These operations are indicative of the successes and failures of interoperable operations amongst Germany and her allies. NATO operational commanders must seek certain imperatives of interoperability at the operational level to be successful. These imperatives are: (1) harmonious unit organization, (2) standardized equipment and training, (3) compatible tactical doctrine, (4) unified command, control, communications, and information systems, (5) coordinated liaison and staff planning, (6) mutual understanding /simplicity, (7) cooperation, and (8) adequate sustainment and logistics. The study also examines the characteristics and capabilities of US and German modernized heavy corps to assess the feasibility of establishing an ad hoc US/German corps. The conclusion of this study indicates the need to practice interoperability at the operational level. Without interoperability, the practice of operational art is inhibited. Escalation across the nuclear threshold because of the inability of NATO operational commanders to achieve the conventional initiative is a dilemma that NATO policy makers must address if national interests continue to impede efforts towards more effective interoperability."

U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. School of Advanced Military Studies

Everett, Michael W.

1987-05-05
DHS' Oversight of Interoperable Communications

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"The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) includes an amalgamation of organizations that work together to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other threats. Such collaboration requires that components establish effective communication among external and internal partners during operations. DHS established an internal goal of developing interoperable radio communications and identified common channels, and its components invested about $430 million in equipment, infrastructure, and maintenance to meet communication requirements. We performed this audit to determine whether DHS' oversight ensured achievement of Department-wide interoperable radio communications. DHS did not provide effective oversight to ensure that its components achieved Department-wide interoperable radio communications. It did not establish an effective governing structure that had the authority and responsibility to oversee its goal of achieving Department-wide interoperability. Without a governing structure, DHS had limited interoperability policies and procedures, and component personnel did not have interoperable radio communications. As a result, only 1 of 479 radio users tested could access and communicate using the specified common channel. Further, of the 382 radios tested, only 20 percent (78) contained all the correct program settings for the common channel. Until DHS develops an effective governing structure and makes a concerted effort to attain Department-wide interoperability, overall progress will remain limited. We made two recommendations to improve DHS' oversight of interoperable radio communications. DHS did not concur with the first recommendation and concurred with the second and is taking action to implement the recommendation."

United States. Department of Homeland Security. Office of Inspector General

2012-11

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