In this special episode of the Crit Comms Circle podcast, we're sharing the audio from our recent guest appearance on Making Waves, the podcast hosted by DAMM Cellular. 

We joined Lone Hansen, Stuart Will, and Hauke Holm over at their podcast, Making Waves, for a conversation that spanned the global trends we're seeing across the industry.

This big-picture conversation explores where the industry is heading - from PMR/LMR to broadband, from fragmented systems to integrated platforms, and from hardware sales to service models. The discussion covers the massive transformation underway, driven by digitalization and billions in investment, tackling macro trends, PMR vs. hybrid systems, cybersecurity urgency, and AI's role in first responder operations.Key Topics Covered:

• Emerging tech and vendor trends, including platform-based control rooms and AI's dual threat/promise
• Global investment patterns and regional adoption barriers
• System deployment challenges, integration issues, and resilience planning
• The role of government, policy, and standards in shaping industry outcomes
• Practical advice for buyers on prioritizing standards and ensuring network flexibility

This episode offers a front-row look at the data, policies, and decisions defining the next decade of critical communications, featuring privileged insider perspectives from Omdia's leading experts.

Listen to the original Making Waves episode here:

• Spreaker
• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube
• DAMM website

Timeline:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 03:55 The big picture
• 11:20 Reliability market realities and friction points
• 22:15 Investment, innovation & cost of ownership
• 30:31 Security, regulation & resilience
• 36:13 Looking ahead
• 44:20 Wrap-up

This cross-podcast collaboration brings you valuable insights from multiple perspectives in the critical communications space.

👋 Get Involved:
Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at critcommscircle@omdia.com  

In this episode, we unpack one of the biggest shifts in the public safety landscape: the move to the cloud. We are joined by Rohan Galloway-Dawkins, Chief Product Officer at Versaterm, to tackle and bust the top five myths that often surround cloud adoption in emergency services. From concerns about data security and control to questions of connectivity and interoperability.

Top 5 myths discussed:

Myth #1: Cloud migration automatically means the provider handles all your security.
Reality: Security in the cloud follows a shared responsibility model. Providers secure the infrastructure, but agencies must manage their own policies, compliance and user practices.

Myth #2: Moving to the cloud means losing control of your data.
Reality: Your data remains yours. With clear contracts and responsible vendors, agencies retain full ownership and control. It's a partnership, not a handover.

Myth #3: Cloud systems can't work in rural or low-connectivity areas.
Reality: With proper planning and redundancy, modern connectivity (including satellite and multi-ISP solutions) makes reliable cloud access achievable almost anywhere.

Myth #4: Mission critical systems like CAD are too important to move to the cloud.
Reality: Cloud platforms now offer higher availability, reliability, and disaster recovery capabilities than most on-prem setups. In fact, by 2030, over 80% of CADs systems are forecasted to be cloud-based.

Myth #5: Cloud solutions make interoperability harder.
Reality: Quite the opposite. Cloud systems enhance interoperability by making it easier to share data and coordinate across jurisdictions, although careful planningand governance remain key.



👋 Get Involved:
Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at critcommscircle@omdia.com  

Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) has been set up to provide railways with a standardized, future-proof communication solution capable of supporting advanced rail operations and services. FRMCS builds on 3GPP-based 5G standalone and mission-critical (MCX) architectures to support the new ETCS as a replacement for GSM-R. But the path towards FRMCS is way more than a straight-forward technology upgrade. The development of FRMCS is a testament to the power of collaboration among diverse stakeholders across the railway ecosystem.

In this episode, we're joined by Marta Fontecha and Raquel Frisa from Teltronic (www.teltronic.es/en/transport/), who share first-hand insights, from lab trials to field pilot deployments like their upcoming high-speed trial, in collaboration with the Spanish railway operator Adif.  The discussion highlights the key learnings to make FRMCS the backbone of safer, more efficient railway transportation networks.


👋 Get Involved:
Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at critcommscircle@omdia.com  

In this episode, we explore the critical topic of AI transparency and how Motorola Solutions is pioneering a new approach to responsible innovation.

In July 2025, Motorola unveiled AI Labels for its Public Safety and Enterprise Security products. These are digital transparency tools that explain, in clear terms, the role of AI in mission critical environments.

Much like nutrition labels on food products, these AI labels break down the "ingredients" of AI: the type of AI being used, who owns the data, how human controls are applied, and the specific purpose of the AI feature. The goal is to demystify AI for customers, communities, and stakeholders while ensuring accountability and trust.

To walk us through the origins, design, and broader implicaitons of this innovation, we are joined by Jehan Wickramasuriya - Senior Vice President, Security & Resilience Software at Motorola Solutions.

What you'll learn this episode

• The origins of AI labels: Why Motorola introduced them and how both internal motivations and customer demand shaped their creation.
• Design inspiration: How nutrition labels and academic research on transparency informed the structure of AI labels.
  
  
• Key components: Type of AI used, data ownership, human controls, purpose, and multi-level access to deeper information.
  
  
• Real-world applications: How AI enhances emergency call handling, video analytics, and Enterprise workflows through features like Assist.
  
  
• Procurement & policy implications: How AI labels are already influencing customer conversations, procurement processes, and responsible innovation across industries.
  
  
• Looking ahead: The potential evolution of AI labels, continuous iteration, and their role in building reciprocal trust between technology providers, agencies, and the communities they serve.

Resources and Links
Motorola Solutions Trust Center: AI Labels

👋 Get Involved:
Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at critcommscircle@omdia.com  

In this special post-event episode, we unpack everything from the recent Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025, held at the Brussels Expo from June 17–19. This year’s event was the largest CCW to date, buzzing with new exhibitors, groundbreaking demos, and intense energy on the show floor.

From the packed conference halls to in-depth discussions at the Global Village, this episode captures the biggest takeaways—from global program updates to award-winning innovations.

🔹 Global Village Highlights
We recap 8 of the 15 national program updates presented this year:

• UK: Targeting full ESN readiness by Q4 2028, with Airwave extended to 2031
• Germany: Restarting their broadband transition after procurement disruptions
• Denmark: Exploring broadband options, no firm timeline yet
• Canada: National PSBN stalled, but regional pilots show promise
• Hungary: Building a unified LT/5G public sector network
• India: Adopting a hybrid model blending public LTE with private networks
• Romania: Structured transition from TETRA to mission-critical broadband
• France: Leading the EU shift with the RRF program and a strong focus on resilience and interoperability

🔹 End-User Driven Innovation

• Case study: Motorola’s WAVE PTX solution in Brazil bridging fragmented networks
• Real-world challenges like interoperability and cross-agency collaboration
• End users shaping design and deployment from day one

👋 Get Involved:
Have questions or want to join the podcast? Email us at critcommscircle@omdia.com  

In this episode, we explore Lancashire Constabulary's recent digital transformation. We dive into how innovative technologies like advanced control room systems, upgraded body worn cameras, and in-car video, are reshaping frontline policing. 

We are joined by Chief Superintendent Chris Hardy. With over 18 years of experience, and a deep passion for innovation, Chris provides a comprehensive view of how strategic tech investment is improving officer efficiency, community safety, and evidential quality, while ensuring teams stay connected and supported.

What we cover

• The technology rollout: Lancashire Constabulary's deployment of 1,750 new body worn cameras (Motorola Solutions V500's), Pronto mobile application, and the M500 in-car video system.
• From Legacy to Leading-edge: A retrosepctive look at the evolution of policing tech, from early headcams to the urrent integrated ecosystem.
• Modernising control rooms: How new live streaming capabilities are transforming incident response and improving situational awareness in real-time.
• Evidence collection and court efficiencies: The pwoer of HD video in simplifying court proceedings, reducing officer court time, and strengthening victim journeys through the justice system.
• Team-led innovation: Why collaboration across ICT, fleet, and operational teams has been essential for a successful transformation.
• System integration and interoperability: The critical importance of connected platforms, and how avoiding data silos helps reduce rekeying errors, improve accuracy, and maximise efficiency.
• Advice for other agencies: Chris shares strategic insights for other public safety organisations exploring similar transformation journeys, including lessons learned, vendor relationships, and the importance of being an informed customer.

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we dive into the shifting landscape of mission-critical communications, especially as broadband technologies continue disrupting traditional models. Our special guest, Stuart Will, VP of Sales at DAMM Cellular Systems, joins us to unpack how enterprise verticals beyond public safety are redefining what “critical” truly means in communication infrastructure. 

From utilities and mining to transportation and offshore wind farms, Stuart shares real-world insights from global markets and customer experiences. We explore how decision-makers in 2025 are weighing cost, security, and performance—and how coexistence between narrowband and broadband is no longer theoretical, but increasingly the norm.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Evolving Definition of "Critical Comms": Why reliable communication is now a lifeline across multiple industries, not just public safety.
• Vertical-Specific Needs: What mining, transportation, utilities, and wind farms require from mission-critical networks—and why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
• Narrowband vs. Broadband: Coexistence & Reality: Why hybrid models are taking hold, and how enterprises are embracing “better together” approaches instead of full transitions.
• Economics Behind the Gear: How strategic buying decisions, OPEX models, and managed services are transforming procurement for critical infrastructure.
• Security, Reliability & SLA Pressures: What makes narrowband still indispensable despite the data promise of LTE/5G—and how cyber threats and system uptime influence long-term investments.
• Lessons for End Users: How adjacent verticals and system integrators can offer valuable procurement insight—and why manufacturers may be a crucial resource for cross-industry best practices.

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we dive into the key highlights and reflections from EENA 2025, the European Emergency Number Association’s annual conference and trade show held in Helsinki, Finland. With over 800 attendees from 50+ countries, the event sparked critical conversations on emergency communications, next-generation technologies, and end-user experience.

Joining us are returning guest Benoit Vivier and first-time guest Christina Lumbreras, both of EENA, who share their insights and top moments from the event.

Key Topics Discussed

• The Energy and Engagement at EENA 2025
• AI in Emergency Communications
• NG112 and MCX: Converging Technologies
• Focus on User Experience and Operator Well-being
• The Policy Perspective: EU Digital Networks Act

Resources & Links

• EENA Main Website
• EENA Conference Website
• EU Commissioner’s Video Message

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we venture beyond the stratosphere to explore the evolving world of satellite constellations. From GEOs to MEOs to LEOs—and even high-altitude platforms in the REO (Regional Earth Orbit) layer—we unpack the technology, applications, and future of global connectivity.

Recorded live at IWCE, this session is one of over 150 expert-led presentations delivered at the conference. Now available as part of the IWCE Digital Pass, you can access this and every session—on demand—for a complete look at the latest in mission-critical communications.

Check out the IWCE Digital Pass here: IWCE 2025

For this episode, what you'll learn:

• LEO vs. GEO vs. MEO vs. RIO: What each orbit does best, and why no single orbit fits all use cases.
• Satellite Applications in Public Safety: Emergency response, disaster recovery, rural healthcare, utilities, and beyond.
• Multi-Orbit Architecture: How merging GEO and LEO networks (like Eutelsat-OneWeb) offers hybrid resiliency, bandwidth, and latency benefits.
• In-Building & Remote Connectivity Challenges: Why satellite tech isn’t for skyscrapers—but excels where towers don’t reach.
• Cybersecurity & Satellite Resilience: How satellites defend against interference, spoofing, and geopolitical tensions.
• Future of Direct-to-Device & Beamforming: The race to make satellites more like your local LTE tower—but in the sky.

Key Takeaways:

• LEO = low latency; GEO = capacity workhorse; MEO = GPS backbone; RIO = future of direct-to-device.
• Satellite is no longer just a backup—it's a dynamic part of modern hybrid networks.
• With beamforming, 5G, and evolving interoperability, satellites are becoming smarter, faster, and more agile.

This recording is just one of over 150 sessions from IWCE. Want access to the full conference experience—including expert panels, technology briefings, and hands-on solution demos?

➡️ Buy the IWCE Digital Pass to stream every session. The digital pass will be active through june 30, 2025!

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked but critical topic of physical security for the infrastructure that supports our essential communication services: the towers, cables, and network sites that must remain operational for public safety, emergency services, and other vital sectors. 

As critical communications increasingly rely on commercial mobile networks, questions of ownership, responsibility, and resilience become more urgent. What happens when a tower is vandalized, or a cable is sabotaged? Who's in charge of protecting these assets? 

To unpack this complex topic, we’re joined by three expert guests who contributed to TCCA’s newly released white paper: “Legal and Regulatory Aspects Relating to the Physical Security of the Telecommunications Infrastructure Used for Critical Communication Services”. Together, we explore how different countries are approaching this challenge—and why harmonized regulation might be the key to future resilience. 

In this episode we touch on:

• Why physical infrastructure security deserves more attention
• The transition from government-owned to commercial networks—and what that means
• Legal, operational, and contractual frameworks for ensuring infrastructure protection
• Insights from Finland, Norway, and the UK on national approaches
• The challenges of regulation, transparency, and vendor involvement
• How Europe and beyond can move toward harmonized minimum standards
• The role of mobile network operators (MNOs)—and why they need to be part of the conversation

A big thanks to our guests for this episode:

• Lasantha De Alwis – Telecoms Policy and Regulation Lead, UK Home Office Emergency Services Mobile Communication Programme
• Nina Myren – Specialist Director, Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB); Chair, TCCA Legal and Regulatory Working Group
• Kari Junttila – Development Manager, Erillisverkot (Finland’s State Security Network Operator)

Related Resource:

• TCCA White Paper: Legal and Regulatory Aspects Relating to the Physical Security of Telecommunications Infrastructure for Critical Communications

Key takeaway: Physical security is not just a local issue—it’s a global challenge. As critical communications ride on commercial infrastructure, it’s time for governments, regulators, and MNOs to collaborate and treat physical protection with the same urgency as cybersecurity.

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we take you inside the halls of BAPCO 2025 in Coventry —the event that really kicks off the public safety tech calendar for the year. From groundbreaking AI and control room innovations to the growing buzz around mission-critical broadband, We feature on-the-ground insights and commentary from the vendors shaping the future of public safety. Plus, we share our key takeaways from a show full of cautious optimism. Direct updates from major vendors including:

• Motorola Solutions – GuardianX branding, Call Assist AI, officer-initiated facial recognition, and a connected motorbike
• Hexagon – Browser-based control tools, VR experiments, and a unified platform approach
• Frequentis – Their growing UK presence, control room integration, and role in the ESN consortium
• NEC (formerly SSS) – Exciting AI-driven control room features and expanded mobile capabilities
• Zetron – Soft-launch of their UK-focused CAD platform and global AI aspirations

We also touch on:

• AI usage across the control room – practical uses, guardrails, and the human-in-the-loop approach
• The ESN relaunch – What’s different this time and why there's real momentum behind it
• Gaps still needing attention – notably, the device ecosystem and end-user readiness

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore one of the most transformative trends in critical communications and enterprise markets—digital transformation. This discussion unpacks how digitalization is reshaping mission-critical industries, including public safety, utilities, and transportation, and the key design principles enabling this shift: cloud-native and automation.

To help tackle this topic we are joined by Prakash Sadagopan, Global Head of Enterprise, Cloud and Network Services at Nokia. As the leader for Enterprise business, Prakash is responsible for Go-to-market initiatives and Business transformation to deliver digital transformation outcomes to Enterprise Customers globally.

Key Takeaways:

• Digital transformation is no longer optional—it is a necessity for mission-critical organizations.
• Cloud-native designs, automation, and AI-driven efficiencies are the pillars of modern critical communication networks.
• Trust and security remain top priorities, and a zero-trust approach is crucial in today’s evolving landscape.
• Organizations must start their transformation journey with scalable, adaptable solutions that ensure long-term resilience and agility.

Learn more about Nokia’s approach to digital transformation: www.nokia.com/industries/core-enterprise-solutions/



Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com 

In this episode, we highlight some of the recent findings from Omdia's latest market research covering the Broadband Critical Communications and the Body Worn Camera & DEMS markets.

Key Takeaways:

• Get Involved: Participate in the Emerging Critical Tech and Innovation Survey 2025. Your input will shape industry insights and help bridge the gap between vendors and end users.
• Evolving Market: The transition to broadband in critical communications is a methodical evolution, with critical milestones expected by the early 2030s.
• AI and Video Tech: The integration of AI in video management (e.g., automated transcription) is revolutionizing the use of body-worn cameras in both public safety and commercial sectors.

Links Mentioned:

• Emerging Critical Tech and Innovation Survey 2025 — Make your voice heard and receive a summary report once we closer the survey.
• British APCO 2025 Event — Join us to hear the initial survey results.
• Omdia's Latest Research Reports — Learn more about Broadband Critical Communications and Body-Worn Cameras.

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore the transformative - and potentially disruptive - impact of audio deepfake technology in public safety. 

We're joined by Dr. Salma Ait Farès, Technical Research Chair at InterTalk, and James Birchall, Director of Technology at InterTalk.

Key Topics Covered

• Understanding Deepfake Technology: We talk about what deepfake technology is, and provide demonstrations of deepfake audio examples that showcase the emotional realism AI can generate.
• Implications for Public Safety: Exploring the potential risks deepfake technology poses to emergency services, including false reports, swatting incidents, and the challenges of detecting synthetic audio without visual cues.
• Ethical and Beneficial Uses: Highlighting positive applications of audio synthesis, such as enhancing accessibility, real-time language translation, and improving dispatcher training in high-stress environments.

Resources & Links

• Learn more about InterTalk: https://intertalksystems.com/
• Register for IWCE 2025 to attend Dr. Farès’ panel discussion: Smart Control Rooms: Detecting Deepfakes and Emotions with AI
• Participate in the 2025 Emerging Critical Technology Survey for critical communications: https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8110325/3609a0d72b8d

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore how Guilford Metro 911 is upgrading its' emergency response through Hexagon's advanced dispatch platform, featuring AI-enhanced collaboration and predictive analytics.

Joining us are Tammy Heaton, Vice President of Customer Success at Hexagon Safety, Infrastructure, and Geospatial Division, and Melanie Jones, Executive Director at Guilford Metro 911 and President of the National Emergency Number Association (NENA).

Together, we discuss:

• The current landscape of Guilford Metro 911, serving multiple agencies and handling over 728,000 calls annually.
• The challenges of operating a 1990s-era Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system.
• The decision-making process behind selecting Hexagon’s browser-based, AI-enabled platform.
• How AI and modern technology are reshaping workflows, resource allocation, and situational awareness for dispatchers and first responders.
• Lessons learned from the ongoing implementation and key takeaways for others considering CAD upgrades.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Shift to Modern Technology: Guilford Metro’s transition to Hexagon’s AI-powered CAD platform marks a significant upgrade from its decades-old system, enabling better remote access, user-friendly interfaces, and powerful AI capabilities.
2. AI in Action: Hexagon’s platform leverages AI for predictive analysis, trend identification, and real-time decision support, allowing dispatchers to focus on critical tasks without being overwhelmed by redundant calls or data.
3. Collaborative Implementation: A diverse team of stakeholders, including dispatchers, IT specialists, and first responders, ensures the new system aligns with the agency's operational needs.
4. Future-Proofing Emergency Response: AI is already transforming non-emergency call management, freeing up resources for emergencies—a trend poised to grow in the coming years.

Resources & Links:

• Hexagon Public Safety: hxgnpublicsafety.com – Learn more about Hexagon’s OnCall Dispatch platform and other public safety solutions.
• Guilford Metro 911: Follow Guilford Metro 911 on LinkedIn.
• NENA (National Emergency Number Association): Stay updated with NENA initiatives on LinkedIn.

Follow Our Guests:

• Tammy Heaton – Vice President, Hexagon:LinkedIn
• Melanie Jones – Executive Director, Guilford Metro 911: Find Melanie on Facebook at Melanie Jones, RPL, EMP, CPE CMCP.

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we take a look at the year ahead and what we're expecting, or wanting, to see for the critical communicaitons industry through 2025.

We're joined by:

• Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst, Industrial & Government Critical Communications at Omdia
• Erin LeMoine, Director, Events for Informa Tech Government Portolio
• Donny Jackson, Editor at Urgent Communications
• Mladen Vratonjic, Chairman of the Board, TCCA
• Tero Pesonen, Chairman, Critical Communications Broadband Group, TCCA

Check out Omdia's "2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure" document here:
2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure

Key topics we discuss for 2025 include:

1. IWCE 2025
   
   • Returning to Las Vegas, March 17-20, 2025, one week earier than usual.
   • New tracks focused on school and campus safety.
   • Networking roundtables and a special Vintage Vegas Reception.
2. Broadband Adoption and Evolution
   • From planning to tendering, 2025 marks a transition from planning stages to actionable implementations for broadband technologies.
   • Service providers' role, telecoms operators are key players in ensuring reliability and security for public safety and critical communications users.
3. Emerging Trends in Technology
   • Body worn cameras and the rise of on-device AI for advanced functionalities like facial recognition and situational awareness.
   • PSAP's and AI, device-driven incidents are pushing AI adoption in control rooms to manage alerts efficiently.
   • Mission-Critical Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) potential breakthroughs in adoption and implementation.
4. Industry Mega-Trends
   • 5G expansion supporting critical applications like video, situational awareness, and AI-driven edge communications.
   • NG911 developments, while progress is slow, 2025 could be pivotal for next-generation emergency response systems.
5. Future of Transportation Communications
   • We spotlight FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communicaitons System) and its role in modernizing railway communications.

Resources & Links:

• Trends for 2025 Report: Explore our comprehensive document highlighting key industry forecasts.2025 Trends to Watch: Smart Infrastructure
• IWCE 2025 Details: Visit https://iwceexpo.com/ for more info.
• Critical Communications World (CCW) 2025: Mark your calendars for June in Brussels! https://www.critical-communications-world.com/

2025 promises to be a transformative year for critical communications, with exciting advancements in AI, broadband, and next-gen systems. Stay tuned for more episodes where we dive deeper into these trends and hear from industry leaders shaping the future.



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In this episode, we take a comprehensive look back at the year 2024, a pivotal year in the critical communications industry. Joined by our colleagues Erin LeMoine and Donny Jackson, we reflect on the significant milestones, trends, and events that shaped the year. From industry conferences and technological innovations to emerging trends like satellite-to-device communications and the continued growth of broadband solutions, we explore it all.

We also celebrate TCCA’s 30th anniversary, recognizing its contributions to standardization and mission-critical communication systems.

"2024 has been a milestone year with significant progress across the globe, setting the stage for an exciting 2025."

As we gear up for 2025, we’re excited about the momentum in the industry and the promising initiatives on the horizon.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. 2024 Market research content and contributions:
   • Published 22 pieces of content, including 8 market databases, 7 market reports, and 6 annual market reports, with our market research spanning topics from M&A analysis, MCX adoption, and ecosystem heatmaps, through to the broadband critical communications market, the command and control room market, and the body worn cameras & DEMS markets.
2. IWCE 2024 Recap:
   • IWCE 2024 in Orlando saw record attendance, with highlights like the next-gen 911 (NG911) showcase as well as the satellite-direct-to-device keynote.
3. Technological advancements:
   • Growth in satellite direct-to-device technology, including initiatives by T-Mobile and Verizon.
   • Evolution of deployable solutions, from backpacks to ruggedized Pelican cases, enhancing first-responder capabilities.
4. Trends and challenges:
   • The transition to broadband and the integration of hybrid solutions.
   • Cybersecurity concerns, supply chain protection, and the importance of resilience in critical networks.
   • The complexity of technological transitions, with examples from AI integration and next-gen 911 implementations.
5. TCCA’s 30th Anniversary:
   • Reflections on three decades of advancing standardized mission-critical technologies.
   • Insights from Mladen Vratonjić and Tero Pesonen on TCCA's achievements and future goals.

Links & Resources:

• Episode 58: Standards-based mission critical solutions become a reality
• TCCA’s 30th Anniversary Press Release: Read More
• IWCE 2025 Event Details: Register Here

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of command, control, and communication systems designed for situational awareness at large-scale operations, with a special focus on the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Our guest is from the product innovation consultancy, Parallel Systems. Matt Falla joins us, Matt is an RCA-trained interaction designer with a career spanning boutique consulting, consumer electronics, and creative agencies. Matt shares insights from his team's pivotal role in designing and implementing a solution that ensured smooth transport operations and high-end service during one of the world’s most complex mega-events.

Key Topics Covered:

• Background on Paris 2024 Operations: Learn how Matt’s team collaborated with On Location and specialized consultancies to design a transport operations system capable of managing thousands of guests and vehicles across 35 venues, involving 10,500 athletes, 45,000 volunteers, and millions of spectators.
• Challenges in Technology and People Management: Explore the complexity of mapping operational ecosystems, streamlining communication among diverse teams, and overcoming human reluctance toward technology adoption.
• Outcome-Driven Innovation: How focusing on safety, customer experience, and reputation informed the design of protocols and technology to ensure rapid response and seamless operations.
• Designing for Situational Awareness: Discover how tailoring information to the needs of specific roles enhanced decision-making, avoided information overload, and ensured effective communication across all levels of the organization.
• The Role of AI and Visual Tools: Insights into the future of situational awareness, with predictions on how AI and highly visual interfaces will simplify data processing and decision-making.

Lessons Learned:

1. 1. Focus on real-world outcomes and design backward from those goals.
   2. Map the network of roles, relationships, and tasks (ontologies).
   3. Simplify complexity with visual tools.
   4. Deliver consumer-grade user experiences to enhance adoption and efficiency.

Key Quotes:

• “More data doesn’t always mean better decisions. Knowing exactly what the weather is in one square meter won’t necessarily improve situational awareness.”
• “Make it as easy and pain-free as possible to use the system. A well-designed solution should improve both day-to-day tasks and emergency responses.”
• “Think of orchestration: just like in music, you need different instruments for a complete sound but a conductor to focus attention where it’s needed most.”

Learn more about Parallel Systems here: https://parallel.systems/

Join the Circle!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this with colleagues and friends interested in the future of critical communications.

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In this episode, we dive deep into the unique contributions and ongoing efforts of British APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials) within the critical communications industry. Our guest, Duncan Swan, is the Chief Operating Officer at British APCO, with 40 years' experience in public safety technology, focusing on strategic and technical advancements in emergency communications.

The conversation touches on:

• The Significance of British APCO Events: British APCO’s annual event serves as a critical networking and collaboration opportunity for stakeholders across public safety agencies, technology vendors, and operators. Duncan explains how these events set the tone for industry-wide innovations and knowledge sharing.
• British APCO’s Role and Mission: Celebrating over 30 years since its founding, British APCO remains committed to fostering advancements in emergency services technology. As an independent charity, British APCO champions improved emergency services and communication technologies that support both frontline responders and the general public.
• Key Focus Areas:
  • Next Generation Communications (NG999): Duncan discusses British APCO’s work on implementing NG999 in the UK, aiming to improve public safety through advanced data and video-sharing capabilities.
  • AI Integration in Public Safety: British APCO is exploring AI applications for improving call response times, non-emergency call handling, and monitoring call quality for training and support.
  • Emergency Services Network (ESN): Updates on the UK’s progress with ESN, which will provide a secure and interoperable network to enhance critical communications for emergency responders.
• International Collaboration through CC:IPS: British APCO’s collaboration with international public safety organizations such as the Collaborative Coalition for International Public Safety (CC:IPS) provides a platform for global knowledge exchange. This coalition helps UK agencies learn from advancements in public safety technology and protocols in other countries, such as AI use in the US and next-gen emergency response systems in Canada and Europe.
• The Path Forward for British APCO: Duncan highlights British APCO’s dedication to data-driven decision-making and supporting agencies through effective technology integration. The organization aims to enhance interoperability among UK emergency services and ensure they’re equipped with the best tools to make timely, informed decisions.

Learn more about BAPCO here: https://www.bapco.org.uk/

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In this episode, we discuss the transormative role of cloud solutions in public safety. We hit on some common misconceptions about cloud migration, break down what multi-tenancy means in a cloud context, and hear actionabe insight for agencies considering cloud migration.

Our guest, Rohan Galloway-Dawkins, is the Chief Product Officer at Versaterm and is responsible for developing an ecosystem of solutions focused on improving workflows for more efficient and effective operations, better service and more just outcomes. Rohan joined Versaterm in February 2022 and brings more than 19 years of experience in the public safety communications and software solutions industry.

Key discussion points:

• Introduction to Versaterm and recent strategic acquisitions and expansions aimed at building a robust ecosystem that serves the entire public safety workflow, from dispatch to judicial processes.
• The power of cloud solutions and some common misconceptions about cloud migration, with emphasis that cloud-based CAD solutions offer the same user experience and functionality as on-premises solutions, but with added benefits in disaster recovery and operational flexibility.
• Understanding multi-tenancy solutions in a cloud context - allowing one application instance to serve multile customers securely and efficiently, and what the advantages are for both vendors and end-users.
• Advice for public safety agencies consdiering cloud migration. Focus on business outcome and user experience, rather than the technical architecture!

Learn more about Versaterm here: https://www.versaterm.com/

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com