1 Luke Klein-Berndt Command, Control and Interoperability Science and Technology Directorate November 8, 2007 Interoperability Tools & Resources 9th Annual Technologies for Critical Incident Preparedness Conference and Exposition

2 Multi-Dimensional Challenge Tools for improving interoperability must take into account all of the factors critical for a successful interoperability solution.

3 OIC & SAFECOM Tools and Resources The Office for Interoperability and Compatibility (OIC) and SAFECOM are committed to developing tools that emergency responders can use immediately. OIC and SAFECOM tools—methodologies, templates, models, and educational materials—capture: Best practices and lessons learned from the field Practitioner-driven requirements Input from emergency responders nationwide A comprehensive overview of OIC and SAFECOM tools is available on the SAFECOM Web site at

4 Tools Available Today Interoperability Continuum Operational Guide for the Interoperability Continuum Statewide Communications Interoperability Planning Methodology 2007 SAFECOM Grant Guidance and FAQs Creating a Charter for a Multi-Agency Interoperability Committee: Template and Questions to Consider Writing Guide for a Memorandum of Understanding Writing Guide for Standard Operating Procedures SAFECOM Guide to Standards and Technology Statewide Planning Guidebook: Improving Interoperability through Shared Channels

5 Plain Language Web Site –Resource for emergency response agencies interested in using plain language instead of coded language (i.e. 10-codes) –Helps agencies understand the level of effort, resources, and key actions needed to implement a plain language initiative Tools in Development Shared Channel Guide v2.0 –Extends and refines the initial document by including three case studies of effective shared channel implementations from across the Nation –Provides lessons learned, obstacles encountered, and best practices

6 Tools in Development Cont’d Tabletop Exercise Methodology –Presents a standardized process for creating and executing a tabletop exercise specific to communications interoperability –Based on Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program guidance –Provides templates and sample documents to assist agencies complete their tabletop exercises Interoperability Business Case –Helps practitioners establish the need for dedicated interoperability funding –Highlights the importance and benefits of improving communications interoperability –Provides assistance to practitioners who are creating a business case to support their interoperability project

7 Planned Event Methodology –Assists communities in strengthening usage of interoperable communications by effectively designing and executing communications for planned events –Based on lessons learned, best practices, and data gathered from the Thunder Over Louisville planning effort and the Jacksonville and Miami Super Bowl communications plans Tools in Development Cont’d Interoperability Migration Model –Web-based application that allows users to easily navigate the tools, guides, templates, and sample documents available to assist with communications interoperability –Evaluates existing interoperability capabilities against key characteristics for each Interoperability Continuum element and sub-element