Clifford Clarke

Less money, increased expectations, a seemingly increased risk of failure, a changing workforce and rapidly changing technology are just some of the issues that make it necessary to carefully evaluate “technology fit” for public safety communications, said Clifford Clarke in January at the APCO International 2010 Winter Technology Summit in Orlando. Clarke is the chief information officer for the Public Technology Institute in Washington, D.C.

In his session, “Governance and Management of Technology: Evaluating the Next Technology,” Clarke offered some considerations public safety communications centers should consider when evaluating new technologies. But first he reminded attendees, most of whom work for government agencies, that bureaucracy has a purpose: Designed inefficiency helps prevent a rush to judgment. That same concept can be applied to major equipment purchases: Think before you buy.

Reasons to invest in new technology include:

• The vendor says you need it. Yes, this is a legitimate reason; if your equipment is obsolete or no longer going to be supported, then you need to consider replacing it.
• The cool factor. If a technology is in widespread commercial use and you’re trying to recruit new employees who expect a certain level of technical capability, you’d better have it or expect to be pressured to get it.
• Competition. Do other comm centers in your area have tools you don’t? Can others centers receive certain types of alerts and messages that yours can’t? Do you really think that your center is the only choice for the area police, fire and ambulance services? PSAPs can and do get replaced.
• To fill a gap in your technology portfolio.
• To fill an obvious need.  

Technology should fit into your existing systems, into your “technical corridor.” It should meet functional requirements and make you more efficient and effective. Consider the return on your investment and its sustainability. Is it scalable? Is it an organizational fit? Does it work within your political environment? Regardless of the type of technology or equipment you’re considering, you need to think about all your options.

About the Author
Keri Losavio is editor of APCO International’s Public Safety Communications magazine. Contact her via e-mail at losaviok@apcointl.org.