What are the major interoperability challenges facing the Nations emergency responders?
With the recent downturn in the economy, many State and local communities are facing major budget cuts. Emergency response agencies are not exempt from these cuts, and State and local agencies are experiencing deep cuts and struggling for basic operating funds. To deal with this challenge, governance is more important than ever. Governance brings together the right people to make decisions and encourages agencies to share resources. In addition, many emergency responders still believe that interoperability is entirely dependent on equipment. While voice and data technologies are essential to communications, interoperability is a multi-dimensional challenge. The Interoperability Continuum identifies the following elements as key to achieving interoperability: Governance, Standard Operating Procedures, Technology, Training and Exercises, and Usage. In order for State and local agencies to properly address interoperable communications, they must address each of these elements. SAFECOM’s a
