To help agencies determine public-safety communications solutions that strike the balance between cost and value, federal groups released a guide that compiles recommendations, best practices and considerations for public-safety agencies to evaluate equipment cost effectiveness.

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Throughout 2019, SAFECOM and the National Council of Statewide Interoperability Coordinators (NCSWIC) recognized the increasing competition for public-safety funding and the need to analyze various features of communications systems and equipment.

SAFECOM and NCSWIC, in partnership with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), developed the Emergency Communications Systems Value Analysis Guide. The guide includes descriptions, costs and expected lifespans of common emergency communications systems; key features of emergency communication systems and equipment based on user position and responsibility; and a value analysis checklist that summarizes analysis questions across common system components and serves as a tool to identify public-safety user requirements.

An accompanying brochure provides key considerations and trade-offs between cost and value of communications systems components such as infrastructure, fixed station equipment, devices, accessories, features, and software and data storage. Understanding the Value of Public Safety Communications Systems: A Brochure for Elected Officials and Decision-Makers serves as a resource for decision-makers to better understand public-safety requirements and solutions aligned with their strategic goals, while allowing agencies to save costs where possible.

SAFECOM and NCSWIC recommend public-safety agencies reference the documents to prepare for annual budget planning and cost estimation. For more information, visit CISA's funding sustainability page here.

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