What are the components of a truly interoperable communications system, and what are the barriers to creating one?
There are a variety of challenges to interoperability: some are technical, some financial, and some stem from human factors such as inadequate planning and lack of awareness of the real importance of interoperability. According to a report published in February 2003 by the National Task Force on Interoperability, the emergency response community views the following as the key issues hampering emergency response wireless communications: Incompatible and aging communications equipment; Limited and fragmented budget cycles and funding; Limited and fragmented planning and coordination; Limited and fragmented radio spectrum; And limited equipment standards.
