DHS Joins Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium

 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has joined the Network Centric Operations Industry Consortium (NCOIC) as a member. NCOIC is working to enable network-centric operations within and between all levels of governments and civil agencies by creating and advocating tools that will enhance development of network centric capabilities and enabling systems. As events such as September 11, 2001, and Katrina have proven, the ability for first responders to access and share essential information is critical for saving lives and property. DHS will be working with other members of the NCOIC on issues hampering first responders from developing a shared operational picture in an emergency situation.

"Interoperability is critical to the ability of our Nation's emergency responders to successfully respond to day-to-day incidents and large-scale emergencies. Ineffective communications risks the lives of responders in the field, and can mean the difference between life and death for those awaiting help," says Jay M. Cohen, Under Secretary for DHS's Science and Technology Directorate.

"First responders must be able to quickly and easily access the information they need from government agencies, other response organizations and the private sector when and where they need it," states Lt. Gen Harry D. Raduege, Jr., USAF (Ret) of Deloitte & Touche LLP and NCOIC Chairman. "Common standards for voice and data communications are critical to developing such capabilities. The addition of DHS as a member of NCOIC further validates the importance of industry and government working in concert to develop a common framework for network centric operations."

NCOIC is establishing the technical approaches that will support interoperability across all levels of government departments, from first responders and local authorities to regional- and national-level military services. Earlier this year, the Consortium announced its next set of network-centric operations interoperability deliverables -- its first Protocol Functional Collection and its Mobile Emergency Communications Interoperability report.

Featured

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.