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In this episode, Paul speaks with Martin Ekman, Global Business Development Director for Axis Body Worn Solutions at Axis Communications, about the rapid expansion of body-worn cameras beyond traditional law enforcement into enterprise markets like retail, healthcare, transportation, and utilities. Martin shares insights on how mission-critical features, connectivity advances, and evolving use cases are driving adoption across diverse sectors—and what the next 3-5 years hold for this technology.

Highlights include Body-worn cameras are no longer just for police: Enterprise sectors like retail, corrections, and utilities are adopting them for safety, compliance, and liability protection. * Evidence integrity is non-negotiable: Unlike consumer action cameras, professional body-worn systems ensure tamper-proof video with end-to-end security—critical as generative AI makes fake footage harder to detect. * Form factor matters: Miniature body-worn cameras are enabling adoption in environments where traditional bulky devices don't fit—think train conductors in button shirts or retail staff on the floor. * Live streaming changes the game: 4G/5G connectivity allows real-time oversight from command centers, transforming safety protocols for Coast Guard boardings, prison interventions, and emergency response. * AI analytics are coming, but battery life is the bottleneck:* Real-time analytics at the edge face power constraints, but streaming to centralized systems already enables features like auto-redaction, transcription, and translation.

Top Takeaway
Body-worn cameras are no longer a niche law enforcement tool, they're becoming a must-have for any organization prioritizing safety, transparency, and evidence integrity. The technology is mature, the use cases are proven, and the market is expanding faster in enterprise sectors than in public safety. If you're not exploring body-worn solutions yet, you're behind the curve.

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In this episode, Alfonso de la Cruz sits down with Ozge Russell, Senior Analyst at Omdia's Smart Building and Energy team, fresh from DistribuTech 2026 in San Diego. Together, they unpack why utilities are facing their most significant transformation since electrification began, and how grid edge intelligence is becoming the frontline defense against complexity, outages, and skyrocketing demand.

Highlights include: 90% of US grid outages originate at the distribution edge, yet utilities historically had the least visibility there * US energy consumption projected to surge 50% in 20 years after two decades of near-zero growth, driven by AI data centers and electrification * Utilities are rebuilding network topology maps using AI because they don't know which homes connect to which transformers * Grid edge intelligence enables autonomous, real-time fault detection, protecting expensive equipment and preventing cascading failures * Affordability is now a top-4 priority* alongside reliability, resiliency, and flexibility, requiring utilities to collaborate with customers, not just serve them

Top Takeaway:
The grid edge is where 90% of outages happen, and where utilities had the least visibility. Edge-native intelligence isn't a nice-to-have; it's the only way to manage bidirectional power flows, protect aging infrastructure, and prevent economic disruption as electrification accelerates.

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In this episode, we dive into Omdia's latest market reports on body worn cameras and broadband critical communications, exploring how frontline device convergence is creating a unified data ecosystem for mission critical operations.

The discussion covers the evolution from hardware bloat to intelligent orchestration, the transitional period of hybrid devices, and the expansion of critical technologies beyond traditional blue light services.

Highlights include
• Hardware bloat should be avoided: Technology for technology’s sake is the downfall of the “connected officer”. First responders carrying too many devices could face decision paralysis about which tool to reach for during critical moments. Convergence of technology into one device can address the complexity challenge.
• The "connected officer" concept requires orchestration, not just convergence: The right number of specialized devices working together intelligently beats trying to create one Swiss Army knife solution
• We're in a massive proof of concept period: Agencies are evaluating hybrid devices that combine narrowband and broadband capabilities, but adoption patterns are still emerging
• Commercial sectors are driving new form factors: Retail, healthcare, and logistics are adopting body worn cameras with completely different requirements than emergency services
• Real-time video analytics will be a game changer: Live streaming from body cameras is only valuable if AI can process and feed actionable insights back to frontline responders timely and effectively.

Top Takeaway
Mission critical technology adoption is use case driven, not technology driven. The most impactful innovations aren't the most complex or futuristic ones, but those that solve specific operational problems faster and more efficiently than existing methods.

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In this episode, we discuss the evolution of systems connectivity, including the successful implementation of cross-border communication using Inter-System Interface (ISI) and how this experience laid the foundation for bridging legacy LMR systems with MCX broadband solutions.

We are joined by Michel Duits, a Senior Principal Engineer at Norway's Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB), where he leads the proof of concept for interworking functions for Norway's National Public Safety Network. Beyond his work at DSB, Michel co-champions the IWF Working Group at TCCA alongside Harald Ludwig and represents DSB in the EUCCS program, contributing to the development of interoperable and secure communication systems across Europe.

Key topics covered
Understanding Interworking Functions (IWF)
* Definition: The bridging functionality that connects LMR systems (Tetra, P25, DMR) with MCX application servers * Core Function: Enables communication between different domains through identity mapping, protocol translation, and data transport * Key Capability: Press-to-talk functionality across different system standards

Implementation Challenges and Solutions
* Starting Point Dilemma: How and where to begin the transition process * User-Centric Approach: Focus on actual user needs rather than theoretical capabilities * 80/20 Rule: Achieving 80% functionality today is better than waiting for 100% perfection * Phased Implementation: Breaking down large infrastructure projects into manageable steps

Multiple Pathways to Interoperability
1. Native Interworking Function (Ideal but limited vendor support) 2. ISI (Inter-System Interface) - Primary focus of current development 3. API-based Solutions - For control room integration 4. Proprietary Systems - Not recommended due to vendor lock-in

Current Proof of Concept Initiative
* Timeline: Started 18 months ago with TCCA working group * Collaboration: Working with Sweden, Finland, and interested vendors * Approach: Moving from simulators and emulators to real system testing * Goal: Demonstrate end-to-end communication between Tetra terminals and MCX applications

Michel's 5-Year Industry Vision
Collaboration Over Competition: Industry players putting aside egos to work together * Open Standardized Ecosystems: Systems that allow organizations to transition at their own pace and budget * Accelerated Development: Faster industry response to what Michel describes as "the clearest commercial business case in 25 years" * Knowledge Sharing:* More transparency and cooperation between industry stakeholders

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In this episode, we look ahead to 2026 and explore the trends, technologies, and challenges set to shape the year across critical communications, public safety, and mission-critical operations.

We’re joined once again by the team from Informa, Alfonso, Donny, and Erin, for a wide-ranging discussion covering everything from AI and cybersecurity to interoperability, platforms, video, drones, and emerging threat vectors.

🔹 What’s Coming at IWCE 2026
We kick things off with a look at IWCE 2026, marking its 50th edition and returning to Las Vegas. Highlights include:* Record-breaking speaker submissions and growing momentum * A near-complete agenda already live * AI appearing across sessions — not as a standalone topic, but embedded everywhere * The return of major industry voices and vendors in force

IWCE once again sets the tone for the year ahead in critical communications.

🤖 AI Everywhere — Opportunity and Risk
AI is a dominant theme for 2026, but not without complexity:* AI-enhanced common operating pictures, alerting, and workflows * Training, ethics, legal implications, and hallucination risks * AI as both a defensive tool and a new threat vector

We explore how AI will quietly permeate nearly every system, even when it’s not obvious from the headline.

🔐 Cybersecurity: From Theory to Reality
Cybersecurity remains a top priority — but the conversation is shifting:* Real-world attacks driving urgency over theoretical discussions * Broadband, cloud, and remote access expanding attack surfaces * Zero-trust architectures becoming essential, not optional * Legacy systems like LMR now exposed through remote monitoring

AI is also changing the cybersecurity landscape — for both attackers and defenders.

🎭 Deepfakes, Disinformation, and Trust
One of the most sobering discussions centers on AI-generated deepfakes:* Fake images, video, and audio triggering real-world shutdowns * Public safety and transport systems facing new verification challenges * The evolution of “swatting” into AI-enabled disinformation

We discuss the growing need for multi-factor verification of information, combining video, sensors, telemetry, and contextual data to validate reality.

🔄 Interoperability and the Shift to Platforms
A major structural shift is underway:* Moving from product-centric solutions to platform-based ecosystems * Interoperability evolving from point-to-point bridges to 360° platforms * APIs and standard interfaces enabling best-of-breed integrations * M&A activity accelerating platform expansion

This transition promises efficiency and flexibility — but also introduces new risks that must be managed carefully.

🎥 Video Takes Center Stage
Video is poised to become central to public safety operations in 2026:* Body-worn cameras expanding beyond traditional vendors * Direct video to emergency services * Video as a core component of the common operating picture

The convergence of video, broadband, and platforms is reshaping command and control environments.

🚁 Drones, Satellites, and the Digital Airspace
We explore the rapid growth of drones as first responders (DFR):* Beyond visual line of sight operations gaining momentum * Geofencing, remote control, and automation improving deployment * Potential use of LEO satellites as “towers in the sky” * Expanding use cases in rural, mountainous, and hard-to-reach areas

This opens new possibilities for search and rescue, situational awareness, and faster response times.

🌐 IoT, Telemetry, and Data Verification
AI threats may actually revive IoT:* Sensors as independent verification sources * Telemetry supporting smarter grids, utilities, transport, and public safety * Multi-source validation reducing reliance on a single data input

The future points toward authentication of information, not just people.

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In this special end-of-year wrap-up episode of the Crit Comms Circle, we look back at 2025 and reflect on the key developments that shaped the critical communications industry over the past 12 months.

Joined by Alfonso, Donny, and Erin, the team revisits the announcements, trends, and market shifts that moved the industry from discussion to action. From ESN milestones and MCX momentum to AI adoption, satellite connectivity, defense investments, and major M&A activity, this episode captures the themes that defined the year—and why they matter.

If 2025 felt like a year where long-promised technologies finally became real, this episode explains why.

Key Topics Discussed

🔹 ESN Progress & Interoperability
* IBM selected as the ESN User Services Supplier at the start of 2025 * Growing confidence in LMR–Broadband coexistence * Etherstack selected for interoperability in both UK ESN (TETRA) and AT&T FirstNet (P25) * What these decisions signal for long-term ESN delivery and industry confidence

🔹 MCX: From Trials to Commercial Reality
* MCX contracts and partnerships accelerating globally * France’s RRF moving into commercial operations * Streamwide’s expanding footprint in Europe and North America * Samsung, Airbus, Leonardo, Nokia, Ericsson, and L3Harris reshaping the MCX ecosystem * Legacy LMR vendors positioning themselves for broadband futures

🔹 Major M&A Activity
* Motorola Solutions’ acquisitions of RapidDeploy and Silvus Technologies * Axon’s acquisitions of Prepared and Carbyne * Over $6B spent on acquisitions by two vendors alone in 2025 * Why Silvus signals the growing importance of defense and non-public-safety verticals

🔹 Defense & Geopolitics
* NATO’s increased defense spending targets * Communications modernization beyond weapon systems * Tactical, infrastructure-less comms and resilience in contested environments * How defense innovation historically feeds back into public safety

🔹 Next-Gen 911 (NG911)
* AI’s role in handling non-emergency calls * Real-world progress on ESInet-to-ESInet interoperability * Maryland’s blueprint for seamless inter-jurisdiction call and data transfers * Reducing re-keying errors and dispatcher workload

🔹 AI Adoption in Critical Communications
* Findings from the Emerging Critical Tech Survey + 61% of organizations piloting or evaluating AI in 2025 + 81% expect AI to play a moderate or major role in the next 3–5 years * Early AI use cases: translation, triage support, automation of routine tasks * AI as an enabler—not a replacement—for emergency professionals

🔹 Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) & Satellites
* T-Mobile’s T-Priority launch in the US * AST SpaceMobile tests on FirstNet spectrum * European sovereign satellite initiatives involving Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo * LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites as complementary—not competing—solutions * Why satellite + terrestrial integration is no longer theoretical

👉 Tune back in January for our “2026 Year Ahead” episode, where we break down expectations for the year to come.

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In this episode, we explore one of the biggest shifts shaping today’s mission-critical communications industry: the evolution toward unified platforms. As public safety operations become increasingly data-driven, the line between voice, data, and multimedia continues to blur. This change is driving agencies to seek greater interoperability, flexibility, and—above all—choice.

With the recent announcement of Zetron’s new end-to-end critical communications platform, Salus, we dive into how unified architectures can streamline emergency workflows without forcing agencies into vendor lock-in.

We're joined by Scott French, President & Executive General Manager at Zetron, who brings more than 35 years of experience across global leaders including Motorola and Panasonic. Scott shares his perspective on what next-generation platforms mean for public safety, why timing and emerging tech (AI, cloud) matter, and how Salus has been designed from the ground up to support diverse operational needs.

💡 Top Takeaways* The industry isn’t asking for fewer vendors—it’s asking for greater choice and interoperability. * Unified platforms must be designed around operational workflows, not just technology layers. * A shared UX across emergency response stages can reduce latency and error. * Cloud-first strategies allow faster innovation, but hybrid + on-prem will remain essential depending on service and policy needs. * Openness is key—platforms must integrate beyond their own vendor ecosystem. * Agencies should shift away from assuming that “one vendor = best experience.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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!

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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.

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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

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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/

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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.

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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*

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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.

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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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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

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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/

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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/

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In this episode, we dive into the critical role of international collaboration within public safety and mission-critical communications.

Our guest, Fredrik Ryberg is the Police Inspector and Head of RG2 at the Swedish Police Authority, shares valuable insights on the importance of reliable communications and the next generation of mission-critical communication systems. Fredrik brings over 16 years of experience in law enforcement and represents Sweden in the EU’s Mission Critical Communication Group (MCCG). He discusses Sweden’s communication framework, the transition from the trusted TETRA system to new broadband solutions like 5G, and how international collaboration can strengthen public safety efforts across borders.

Listeners will learn about:
* The structure of the Swedish Police Authority and its reliance on communication networks like Rakel (TETRA). * The future of mission-critical communications with the transition to Rakel Generation 2 (RG2). * The role of reliable communications in enabling coordination during emergencies. * How the Swedish Police is evolving to embrace new technologies like 5G and broadband for enhanced capabilities such as live video streaming and situational awareness. * The complexities and benefits of collaborating with other agencies, industry partners, and across countries.

Actionable Takeaways:
* Stay informed and involved in public safety communication advancements by attending industry conferences and engaging with experts. * Recognize the importance of collaboration at multiple levels, from internal teams to international partnerships. * Embrace new technologies that support better communication and collaboration in mission-critical scenarios.

Learn more about the Swedish Police Authority and RG2 at MSB’s website.
For updates on the EU Mission Critical Communication Group, visit the European Commission’s website.

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In this episode, we explore the role of AI in enhancing critical communication systems, particularly in high-stakes environments like public safety, emergency services, defense, and industrial operations. Clear, accurate, and fast communication in these sectors can often be the difference between life and death. Traditionally, these communication systems have relied on human operators and technology that can struggle in chaotic environments, leading to errors or delays. However, AI is revolutionizing this space, particularly in audio and voice applications.

Our focus today is on noise reduction AI, which isolates human speech from noisy environments, ensuring vital messages are heard and acted upon without delay. To give our listeners a clearer idea of how AI can enhance communications, we include real audio examples demonstrating the difference between noisy and AI-enhanced speech.

Joining us is our special guest, Mette Carstensen, CEO and co-founder of Augmented Hearing. Mette brings deep expertise in AI-powered noise reduction, with a background in biomedical engineering and psychoacoustics. She provides valuable insights into how AI can reduce noise in critical communications, allowing professionals in high-pressure environments to perform more efficiently.

Key Topics Discussed:
* How AI-powered noise reduction filters out background noise and enhances speech intelligibility. * Real-world examples of AI-enhanced audio clips to illustrate the technology's impact. * The role of Edge AI in critical communications, offering fast, on-premises processing without the need for cloud systems. * Applications of AI in emergency call centers (e.g., reducing stress for 112/911/999 call-takers). * Future potential for AI in consumer and professional environments.

Visit Augmented Hearing’s Website for more information.
Follow Augmented Hearing on LinkedIn for updates: LinkedIn Page.

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In this episode, we discuss the results from the 2024 Emerging Critical Tech & Innovation Survey conducted by Omdia, in partnership with IWCE (https://iwceexpo.com/)

This survey, which gathered insights from both end users and vendors in the critical communications industry, sheds light on how technology such as AI, IoT, 5G, and more are impacting this rapidly evolving sector.We explore key topics such as:
* The state of emerging technologies in critical communications as of 2023 * How vendors and end users are approaching new technologies, and the differences in their perspectives * Future potential technologies, including video analytics, rapid deployment solutions, and cybersecurity * The budget constraints and sales targets from both sides of the industry * The importance of bridging the gap between traditional LMR (Land Mobile Radio) systems and newer broadband technologies

Key Takeaways:
1. LMR remains the backbone of critical communications, but emerging technologies like 5G, AI, and IoT are starting to reshape the landscape. 2. There is a significant difference between vendor sales targets and end user budgets, with vendors projecting more aggressive growth in 2024 than end users. 3. The survey highlights the importance of understanding the nuances between different user groups, including public safety, utilities, transportation, and mission-critical operators. 4. Video analytics, connected vehicles, and rapid deployment technologies are among the emerging solutions gaining traction. 5. Cybersecurity remains a top priority, and the industry is in various stages of adoption, with end users evaluating and piloting new technologies like AI and IoT.

*The full survey report will be available October 2024. Check back on this page for a link to download the summary report.***

Thank You to Our Listeners!

This survey wouldn’t have been possible without the participation of our community. We invite you to check out the results and stay tuned for our 2025 survey—make sure your voice is heard!

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In thi episode, we touch on how public safety's adoption of technology differs from enterprise segments, before diving into the world of Next Generation 911, or NG911, and its transformative impact on public safety communications.

To help us with these two, intertwined topics, we are joined by Phil Rotheram. Phil is the Head of Strategic Sales at Atos Public Safety, and the current Chair of the NG911 Interoperability Task Force’s Financial Committee. He has more than 30 years of experience, with a deep and broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing emergency communications in the digital age we find ourselves in.

My key takeaways from this episode:
Public Safety Technology Adoption vs. Enterprise: The adoption of technology in public safety, specifically 911 communications, lags behind the enterprise sector. Public safety systems often use outdated technology, while the enterprise sector frequently updates its systems. * Legacy Systems and Challenges: Many public safety systems still use old technologies from legacy telephone companies, which haven't evolved with modern advancements like smartphones. There are challenges in replacing these systems, especially in regions with limited funding. * Cloud Adoption in Public Safety: There's a significant difference in cloud adoption between public safety and enterprise sectors. While public safety is slowly adopting cloud-based solutions, there are concerns about security and a reluctance to move away from physical systems. * Next Generation 911 (NG911): NG911 represents a significant upgrade from traditional 911 systems, moving to IP-based systems that can handle voice, text, video, and data. The transition to NG911 is necessary but challenging due to funding and technical issues. * Interoperability and Standards: There's a critical need for interoperability and standardization in public safety communications systems. The NG911 Interoperability Task Force aims to ensure systems meet standards and work together effectively. * Funding and Implementation Challenges: Funding is a major barrier to implementing NG911 and upgrading public safety technologies. Smaller states and counties struggle with the costs, and there's a need for consistent funding and support. * Industry Awareness and User Confidence:* There's a need for better understanding and communication within the industry regarding new technologies, like cloud solutions. Public safety practitioners should not fear adopting new technologies, as they offer significant improvements.

Thanks again to Phil Rotheram for joining us to talk about these topics. Connect with Phil on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philrotheram/

Find out more about Atos Public Safety here: https://atos.net/en/solutions/command-control-systems/public-safety

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In this episode, we talk about broadband innovations in the world of TETRA. We discuss the recent innovation from Motorola Solutions, specifically the launch of the DIMETRA Connect solution along with the MXP660 TETRA radio, and how these technologies are enhancing critical communications.

We're joined by 2 special guests from Motorola Solutions:
* Katja Millard, Corporate Vice President of Critical Communication Networks * Stuart Longley, the TETRA device portfolio product leader.

Key Takeaways include:
* TETRA's proven reliability from decades of relaibly serving the needs of mission critical communications. But TETRA continues to adapt and evolve to meet modern needs. * Introducing DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660 radio - how these innovative technologies integrate TETRA with broadband technologies to enhance communication reliability and coverage. * Benefits of hybrid communication solutions - the advantage of combining TERA and broadband in a seamless manner.

My personal highlights include Katja and Stuart sharing their insights into the design and strategic thinking behind DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660, as well as the discussion around the importance of indoor and dense urban area coverage. Really good to see the ability to leverage Wi-Fi, broadband and TETRA on one device for seamless voice communication.

Visit Motorola Solutions for more information on DIMETRA Connect and the MXP660 radio discussed in this episode.

Download the latest TETRA Terminals report, exclusive to Omdia subscribers, on the Omdia website: TETRA Terminals – 2024 Analysis.

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In this episode, we delve into the Global Certification Forum's (GCF) recent launch of the Mission Critical Services (MCS) certification program. Specifically, we learn a little more about its certification program and how it differs with other testing alternatives, what different stakeholders need to do regarding Mission Critical Push-to-Talk certification, whether you are a customer or end-user, a vendor, or even involved in the regulatory side of the space.

We are joined by Dr. Fidel Liberal, a well-recognized expert in Mission Critical communications. He works as professor yin the University of the Basque Country where he leads different mission critical communications and 5G related R&D projects. Among others, he is the coordinator of the Mission Critical Open Platform (MCOP) and leads the MCS TaaSting project, aimed at providing flexible testing as a service mechanisms for MCS certification. As a result of his intense advocacy activity in Mission Critical communications, he is involved with most relevant stakeholders in the sector including TCCA, NIST/PSCR, EENA, PSCE, and standardization and certification bodies such as ITU-T, 3GPP, ETSI and GCF.

My key takeaways from this episode:
Certification Importance and Impact: The certification is a significant advancement for the mission-critical industry, promoting a healthier, more open, and interoperable ecosystem. It represents a major step in establishing standards-based solutions and compliance with 3GPP standards, ensuring that mission-critical solutions are reliable and meet high-quality standards. * Certification Process Overview: The process set by GCF for certification involves technical evaluations using a specific testing platform and adherence to a harmonized set of test cases accepted by the industry. This ensures that MCS clients and devices comply with the required standards and that the certification is recognized industry-wide. * Stakeholder Responsibilities: Different stakeholders, including vendors, customers, and regulatory bodies, have specific roles in adopting and implementing the certification standards. Vendors must ensure their products are certified, while customers should verify that vendors have the necessary certifications when making purchasing decisions. * Industry Adoption and Future Plans:* The certification is the first step toward broader compliance and standardization in mission-critical services, with future plans to include additional components like MC data and MC video. The ongoing development aims to enhance interoperability and compliance across the industry, ultimately supporting a multi-vendor ecosystem.

Want to learn more about how to get your product certified? Check out the upcoming GCF MCX Certification Programme Overview webinar on July 9th 14:00 - 15:00 BST.
iRegister here: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/ae800e0d-7f33-4064-8f11-3cd1a650ca61@ebb485f7-c7f5-4d73-b3ca-f8b6328be0e5

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In this episode, we delve into eMBMS (evolved multimedia broadcast multicast service), focusing on its applications within nationwide broadband communication networks, particularly for emergency and public safety use.

We are joined by Peter Clemons, an expert in critical communications, who discusses how eMBMS bridges the gap between traditional broadcast and unicast technologies, offering efficient, synchronized group communications vital for public safety scenarios.

Peter highlights the transition from older systems like TETRA to broadband solutions, emphasizing eMBMS's role in enhancing spectrum and energy efficiency. He explains the technical components of eMBMS, and its implementation on devices enabled at the chipset level by major suppliers.

The discussion also touches on real-world applications and deployments, like the SafeNet project in Korea and public safety networks in Spain, illustrating eMBMS's effectiveness and the ongoing standard developments in 3GPP, ensuring its relevance in future 5G and 6G environments.

Key takeaways from this episode include:
1. Efficient Communication for Public Safety: eMBMS provides an efficient solution for broadcasting to multiple users simultaneously, which is crucial for emergency and public safety communications. This efficiency is particularly vital in situations where quick and synchronized communication can affect outcomes, such as in emergency responses. 2. Transition from Legacy Systems: The discussion highlighted the transition from traditional multicast systems like TETRA to more advanced broadband technologies that incorporate eMBMS. This shift is essential for modernizing public safety networks to leverage broader and more reliable communication capabilities. 3. Technical Components and Implementation: Key technical aspects of eMBMS were explained, such as the roles of the Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BMSC), mbms Gateway, and Multi-cell Multicast Coordination Entity (MCE) within the network. The implementation on devices is supported at the chipset level by major manufacturers, ensuring wide compatibility and support. 4. Real-world Applications and Deployments: The episode covered examples of eMBMS in action, like the SafeNet project in Korea and new deployments in Spain, showing its practical benefits and the growing adoption in public safety networks globally. 5. Future Outlook and 3GPP Developments: Ongoing developments in 3GPP standards for eMBMS to support upcoming network generations like 5G and 6G were discussed. The future of eMBMS looks promising with continual enhancements that will further integrate it into public safety and critical communication networks. 6. Critical Role in Future Networks: The conversation underlined eMBMS's pivotal role in future communication networks, emphasizing the need for continued development and standardization to ensure it meets the evolving demands of public safety communications.

Want to know more about this topic?
Check out the Whitepaper "Delivering Critical Communications at Scale" from ENENSYS Technologies here: https://www.enensys.com/knowledge/delivering-critical-communications-at-scale/

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As the critical communications industry continues to evolve towards the world of MCX and NG911/112, the potential complexities for end users to be able toleverage these technologies continues to increase. Are strategic partnerships between companies the secret to overcoming these in future mission critical networks?

In this episode, we are talking about the exclusive partnership agreement signed between Frequentis and Tait Communications, which allows Tait access to LifeX console platform technology.

We dive deep into what this partnership means for both companies, and hear from both sides of the partnership, with a representative from both Frequentis and Tait.
We are joined by:
* Manuel Hintermayr, Director of Public Safety Solutions and Sales at Frequentis * Kevin Sumrell, President of Tait Americas

The Frequentis LifeX platform, used broadly through many countries, represents a potentially disruptive approach for the North American market, as it seamlessly integrates various mission critical communication technologies, including Analog and P25, while also accomodating DMR, MCX, 911 and NG911 in the future.

Both Frequentis and Tait will be attending APCO 2024, being held this year on 4-7th August in Orlandof, Florida.

Find out more about each company here:
Frequentis: https://www.frequentis.com/
Tait Communications: https://www.taitcommunications.com/

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In this episode, we cover some of the many highlights from the EENA 2024 Conference and Exhibition that was held in Valencia, SPain from the 24th to th 26th April 2024. We are joined by EENA's Public Affairs Director, Benoit Vivier, who is plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of the EENA conference year on year. And this year was certainly no exception, with the event's highest attendance, a packed conference schedule and a busy exhibition hall to boot!

We focus in on 3 shared highlights:
1. The opening session: Focused on the setup of the 112 system in Ukraine during wartime, showcasing the implementation of a modern emergency response system under challenging conditions. 2. The EENA Special Project: The AI special project by EENA aims to test AI applications in emergency call centers across multiple countries, with results expected by the end of the year. 3. EU AI Act: Benoit discussed the implications of the EU AI Act, which is the first legislation of its kind globally, emphasizing a risk-based approach to ensure ethical AI use. High-risk AI systems used in emergency services must comply with stringent regulations.

Find out more about the EENA 2024 conference, along with the open access conference materials, here: https://eenaconference.org/eena-2024/

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In this episode, we share an exclusive preview of the Critical Communications World (CCW) 2024 event in Dubai happening 14-16th May 2024. This episode features in-depth discussions with leading experts Dr. Hamad Khalifa Alnuaimi, a leader in critical communications in the Middle East, currently managing the telecommunication operations at Abu Dhabi Police General HQ, and Tero Pesonen, Chairman of TCCA’s Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG).

We talk about the critical importance of advanced communication technologies in public safety and industry, dive into the discussions about the event's themes, the challenges in critical communications, and the technologies that are shaping the future of safety and connectivity.

Find out more about the Critical Communications World (CCW) event here: https://www.critical-communications-world.com

What You Will Learn in This Episode:1. Overview of CCW 2024: Insights into what to expect at the Critical Communications World 2024 event in Dubai, including key themes and objectives. 2. The Importance of Critical Communications: Discussion on how critical communications serve as the lifeline for society and industry, focusing on public safety, utilities, and other essential services. 3. Expert Insights: * Dr. Hamad Khalifa talks about the role of telecommunications in managing major public events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix. * Tarot Personan discusses the collaborative efforts needed to advance critical communications technology globally. 4. Technological Innovations: Explore the latest innovations in critical communications technology and their impact on industry practices. 5. Global Cooperation: The necessity of global cooperation and standardization in enhancing safety and efficiency across various sectors.

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode enlightening. Share it with colleagues who might also benefit from understanding the vast landscape of critical communications as we head towards CCW 2024.

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In this episode, we listen in to a live recorded session from IWCE 2024 on the topic of transitioning to NG911 capabilities, what PSAPs need to upgrade.

The session featured an all-star panel consisting of Jeremy Hill, CPE , 9-1-1 Program Specialist and Public Safety Advisor at the NTIA Office of Public Safety Communications; Fabricio Velez , Director of Interoperability and Industry Standards at INdigital; and Steven Raucher , CEO at RapidDeploy.
In my absence due to last minute illness, the session was ably chaired by Chris Moore from Comcast.

The session touches on how the major requirements for NG911 can be met, as well as where the opportunities and key application areas are for public safety agencies.

Get the IWCE DIgital Pass
IWCE 2024 has come to an end now, but welcomed more than 3,800 members of the mission and business critical communities. The show saw 4 days pakced full of conference sessions, with more than 115 hours of content across panels, keynote speakers, and presentations from the Emerging Tech & Innovation Theatre.

If you want to access all of the recordings from the event itself, the IWCE Digital Pass is now available. These recordings are available through to June 28th 2024, so sign up now to make the most of these asessions while available.

Find out more about the WICE DIgital Pass here:https://iwce.informatech.com/2024/index/registrations/

If you were there in-person at IWCE, you have access to all of the recordings as part of your pass. These can be found here: https://attend.informatechevents.virtual.informatech.com/c/iwce-events

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In this episode, we cover some of the highlights from the recent BAPCO 2024 trade show and we hear directly from vendors about what you would have seen if you had been there, and where they see the industry heading.

A special thank you to those vendors that participated in this episode, allowing our listeners who weren't able to make it to BAPCO 2024 an insight into what they missed, and an insight into where the industry s heading.

Thank you to NICE, Sepura, BT/EE, Samsung, Tait, Airbus and Motorola Solutions for participating in this episode where we trialled something a little different for you!

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In this episode, we talk with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service on the cruciality of communications in an emergency response, and how they’ve navigated challenges in this critical communications space.

Specifically, we talk with Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service's Chief Fire Officer, Callum Faint, on what his new role as board chair for the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Digital, Technology and Cyber Board will mean for Fire and Rescue Services in the future. We hear about the latest Digital, Data and Technology (DDaT) roadmap for fire services is being driven to ensure greater efficiencies can be found amoung fire and rescue services across the UK, and we hear how Leicestershire FRS have implemented a new mobilising system, including some of the challenges that had to be overcome, and advice for others who may be in a similar position.

Our guest on this episode, Callum Faint, transferred to Leicestershire Fire and rescue Service in July 2019 as an Assistant Chief Fire Officer, he was then subsequently promoted to Chief Fire Officer in September of 2020 and in a short timeline Callum not only led the Service through the COVID-19 pandemic but also improved the Services performance and culture, with significant improvements across almost all gradings of inspection. Even more recently, Callum has been appointed as the Digital, Technology and Cyber board chair for the National Fire Chiefs Council.

Find out more about the NFCC DDaT here: https://nfcc.org.uk/our-services/data-portal/
Find our more about Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service here: https://leics-fire.gov.uk/

Please check out Omdia's Emerging Critical Tech & Innovation Survey in partnership with IWCE:
https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7695058/e898235f6849

The survey should only take 10 minutes to complete. All participants will receive a free summary, and all IWCE participants who complete the survey will be invited to a session where the results will be shared in-person by myself and Ildefonso de la Cruz.

Please share with colleagues and customers and let's gauge the voice of the industry together!

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In this episode, we explore the forefront of critical communications in the emergency response sector by discussing the process a national organization went through to procure and roll out a critical communication solution that will be used nationwide.

Specifically, we talk about the Ambulance Radio Programme (ARP) and how they rolled out the new Mobile Data & Vehicle Solution (MDVS) to Ambulance Trusts in England and Wales.

The ARP have managed the ‘Airwave Service’ for ambulance trusts in England and Wales since 2005, so this includes the Radios, Mobile Data, Networks, and Control Room Systems used to communicate with operational crews. The technology is now undergoing a replacement programme, working with multiple suppliers, with this programme being led by ARP and funded by the Department for Health and Social Care. The MDVS rollout program is currently ongoing, beginning in April 2023 with the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, and planned to end December 2024. By the end of December 2023 the program had rolled out the mobile data and vehicle solution to more than 999 ambulances.

We are joined by Stuart Murphy, Stuart is the Senior Program Manager at the Ambulance Radio Program, and has over 25 years of experience in the delivery, national procurement, design, testing and service management of enterprise wide solutions across the health sector. Since joining the Ambulance Radio Programme in 2015, he has played a key role in their national procurement efforts. Before the Mobile Data & Vehicle Solution, he led a multi-discipline team on the design, build and testing of the Control Room Solution (CRS) up to 2021. He then began work on completing the pilot and now successful live delivery of the MDVS (Mobile Data Vehicle Solution) rollout which started in April 2023.

Find out more about the Ambulance Radio Program here: https://ambulanceradioprogramme.nhs.uk/

Please check out Omdia's Emerging Critical Tech & Innovation Survey in partnership with IWCE:
https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7695058/e898235f6849

The survey should only take 10 minutes to complete. All participants will receive a free summary, and all IWCE participants who complete the survey will be invited to a session where the results will be shared in-person by myself and Ildefonso de la Cruz.

Please share with colleagues and customers and let's gauge the voice of the industry together!

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In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of private networks, exploring their transformative impact on telecommunications.

We are joined by Shahid Ahmed, Group Executive Vice President at NTT Group, with over 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. The discussion unfolds with an overview of private networks, their growing role in critical infrastructure, and their facilitation of LTE and 5G adoption.

Connect with Shahid here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahid-ahmed-472440/

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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 2024.

We're joined by:
* Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia * Donny Jackson, Editor at IWCE's Urgent Communications * Erin LeMoine, Event Lead for IWCE

Check out Omdia's "Physical Security and Critical Communications Trends to Watch 2024" document here:
https://omdia.tech.informa.com/insights/2024/physical-security-and-critical-communications-trends-to-watch-2024

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In this episode, we take a look back at what's occurred in 2023 that's impacted the critical communications industry. We start with looking at macro economic trends and the effect they've had on the industry, and then talk about some of the important developments within the critical communications industry that we've seen impact this market.

To help cover everything that's happened we're joined by Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia; Donny Jackson, Editor at IWCE's Urgent Communications; and Erin LeMoine, Event Lead for IWCE.

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In this episode, we explore the legal and regulatory aspects regarding the realisation of Quality of Service, Priority and Pre-emption (QPP) in commercial networks.

We are joined by two esteemed representatives from TCCA, Nina Myren and Johna Levin, who help walk us through the findings of the recently published whitepaper.

Please do check out the white paper here: https://tcca.info/documents/September-23_LRWG_QPP_whitepaper.pdf/

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In this episode, we discuss the latest Omdia videos recorded by Paul Bremner and Ildefonso de la Cruz.

We hear Ildefonso reviewing next generation critical communication networks and discussing the significant shift in the critical communications market. Then we hear Paul outline key trends and disruptors impacting the control room market before reviewing how AI will impact control rooms.

Videos discussed on today's episode:
* Ildefonso De La Cruz Morales reviews next gen critical communications networks * Ildefonso De La Cruz Morales on the significant shift in the critical communications market * Paul Bremner reviews key trends and disruptors that are impacting the control room market * Paul Bremner answers how AI will impact the control room industry

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In this episode, we focus on the human factors behind the technology, and understanding how human-decision making works is absolutely paramount in improving decison-making in high-stress environments.

We are joined by Bart van Leeuwen, Situational Awareness Master Instructor, Keynote Speaker, Owner at Netage B.V., and Fire Captain. Bart’s unique combination of experiences across the fire industry, IT industry and academia allows him to provide a fresh perspective on issues involving data usage and human factors.

Join us for a fascinating discussion where I took 3 key lessons:
1. The implementation of technology starts with human factors 2. What is technically possible is not always useful 3. High cognitive workloads in high-stress scenarios impacts multiple areas

Connect wth Bart here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartvanleeuwen76/

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In this episode, we explore the world of technology consulting with a focus on our expertise in the critical communicaitons industry and why clients turn to us for their consulting needs.

We are joined by Niall Jenkins, Principal Consultant leading Omdia's custom research and advisory services for the government sector.

If you're curious about custom research and consultancy, this episode is a must listen. We cover:
Omdia's expertise in technology consulting*

+ Focused on the critical communications industry
+ With a wide range of research topics covered in the government sector

• Custom research and consulting capabilities
  • Assess, advance, and amplify categories
  • Strong emphasis on access to domain experts
• Client engagement
  • Tailored projects include marekt sizing, strategic consulting, and thought leadership

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In this episode, we delve into the critical world of disaster management as we preview an upcoming Disaster Management Virtual Symposium. With three focused sessions on planning, response, and recovery, our guests share insights into the symposium's objectives, key topics, and expert speakers.

Discover the latest strategies, technologies, and success stories in the field of disaster management and learn how you can get involved in shaping a resilient future. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just curious about disaster preparedness, this episode offers valuable information you won't want to miss.

In this episode we're joined by:
* Alfonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia * Donny Jackson, Editor at IWCE's Urgent Communications * Michelle Havich, Editor at American City & County * Andy Castillo, Editor at American City & County

Register for the free Disaster Management Symposium here:
https://informatech.tradepub.com/free/w_defa5134/

Date: November 8th, 2023 | 10AM- 1PM (PT)

Tune in to stay informed and make a difference in your community's disaster readiness!

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In this episode, we are joined by the Verizon Frontline team to dispel five common myths in the mission critical market which can mislead public safety decision makers.

We're joined by Cory Davis, who serves as the National Director for the Verizon Response & Public Safety Operations team, and Arshdeep Sawhney, the Director of Product Management for the Public Sector portfolio in Verizon Business Group.

The myths we cover in this episode include:

1 There is a federally mandated public safety network

2 Agencies are mandated to use one specific carrier only

3 Only one carrier has "always on" priority features

4 Wireless carriers can have 100% of their sites backed up by permanent generators

5 Wireless carrier networks are not secure

Connect with our guests on LinkedIn here:
Cory Davis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corywdavis/
Arshdep Sawhney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arshdeep-sawhney-aa473027/

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In this episode, we cover a range of topics including the latest highlights from APCO, the upcoming research from Omdia, a couple of industry news items, and the call for speakers for IWCE.

We're joined by Alfonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia, and Donny Jackson, Editor of Urgent Communications.

Please do check out the IWCE Call for Speaker submission page, found here: https://iwceexpo.com/call-for-speakers

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Get in touch with us at critcommscircle@omdia.com*

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In this episode, we focus on the need to scale control rooms for large events and how an as-a-Service approach can facilitate this.

We are joined by Karl Price and Bernat Elias from Frequentis. Karl is the public safety CAD manager at Frequentis, with more than 28 years experience in the emergency services sector. Bernat is the LifeX as-a-Service business manager and has over 15 years experience in the IT industry. Combined, Karl and Bernat share their thoughts on why control rooms must be able to be scaled easily.

Some key points I took away from our fascinating conversation:
* The scaling up of emergency services includes not only onsite responses but also managing overflow calls from remote locations. * The shift to as-a-Service models enables organisations to scale up and roll back operations smoothly in the event of unplanned scenarios. * The transition to as-a-Service and cloud-based operations requires a change in mindset from traditional in-house control room setups. This includes changes at all levels of an organisation! * The change in mindset should involve a shift in technical, legal, and financial perspectives. On the technical side, service providers take over system maintenance and security. Legally, the terms and conditions of the contract change due to the shift in responsibilities. Financially, the budgeting model switches from a capital expenditure (CAPEX) model to an operational expenditure (OPEX) model. * Cloud solutions offer flexibility and can accomodate workers in multiple locations, making it easier for emergency services personnel to do their jobs from anywhere.

You can find out more about the Frequentis public safety portfolio here:
https://www.frequentis.com/en/public-safety

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In this episode we explore one of the biggest challenges in incident response today: access to real-time information. We talk with Motorola Solutions about the Connected Vehicle which addresses this challenge directly by integrating multiple technologies together to provide officers with relevant information on the existing screen in the vehicle.

We are joined by Ian Williams from Motorola Solutions.Ian spent the weeks before CCW touring Motorola Solutions’ Connected Vehicle across Europe and he joins us to talk about the technology used in the Connected Vehicle itself. The vehicle serves as a hub of integrated technology, including advanced cameras, voice command systems, radios, video analytics, and body-worn integration. This integration provides officers with a comprehensive picture of both the inside and outside world, enabling safer and more efficient decision-making.

Five key benefits from the Connected Vehicle were raised in this episode:
1. Safety: The connected vehicle technology offers enhanced safety features for police officers. It allows for better communication and access to information, which can help officers make informed decisions and respond more effectively to situations. 2. Additional Information: The connected vehicle provides access to additional information that would otherwise not be possible to have. This includes real-time surveillance video, location tracking, and integration with other devices and systems. 3. Comfort: The connected vehicle's design minimizes protruding equipment in the cabin, creating a more comfortable environment for officers. This is particularly important considering the amount of equipment officers already carry, such as radios, ballistic vests, firearms, and tasers. 4. Efficiency and Covert Operations: The connected vehicle's design allows for more efficient use of vehicles. It can be used as both a covert and standard vehicle, providing flexibility for police operations. Additionally, the use of hire vehicles with installed equipment offers cost-saving benefits for police forces. 5. Future Impact: The adoption of connected vehicles is likely to increase in the future. The technology can be used to handle the increasing amount of CCTV and video data in policing, improving efficiency in processing and sharing this information.

You can find out more about the Connected Vehicle here: https://www.motorolasolutions.com/en_xa/products/connected_vehicle.html

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In this episode we welcome Jan Petter Lie, President for the European Business at Cyviz, a solutions provider for dynamic control rooms in mission-critical environments. With his extensive experience in creating flagship innovation centres, collaboration spaces, and customer-facing environments, Jan Petter offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of control room design.

Unlike traditional technology vendors, Cyviz takes a holistic approach, integrating subsystems at a hardware level to create control rooms that are more than just the sum of their parts. We delve into the limitations of the traditional approach to control room design, emphasizing the need to align design with operational requirements rather than starting solely from a technological standpoint.

The conversation explores the impact of digitalization on control rooms and how organizations are adapting to handle increased data consumption and dynamic workflows. Jan Petter emphasizes the importance of involving control room operators and stakeholders early in the design process to ensure the space meets their operational needs and enables better decision-making.

We highlight some of Cyviz's past projects, including the Special Olympics World Games 2019 Master Operations Center, the Acute Medical Command Center in Alesund, and the Renewable Energy Control Room for Tronder Energy. These examples demonstrate the value of future-proof, standardized control room solutions that can adapt as needs change.

Discover how embracing innovation and fostering a culture of change can transform control room environments, enhance efficiency, and empower operators. Whether you're interested in secure control rooms, digital transformation, or the future of control room design, this episode provides valuable insights from an industry leader.

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In this episode we share some of our key highlights from CCW 2023, product announcements that caught our eye, and what we learned from the show this year.

The theme this year was "Success in Cooperation", reflecting the fact that five nations - Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Estonia - acted as hosts. This theme was further emphasised by the increased number of organisations participating and the cooperative effort seen througout the event.

A major topic of discussion from the event was the transition from narrowband networks to broadband networks for mission critical communications. This transition is complex and time-consuming, requiring strategic alignment among different stakeholders. The timeline for this transition that emerged from the presentations seems to be set, perhaps optimistically, for the early 2030s.

We also discuss some of the ICCA award winners, some of the devices we saw, the demos, and the sessions attended and hosted.

CCW 2024 will be held in Dubai between the 14-16th May. See you there!

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In this episode we talked with Airbus DS SLC about Europe's transition from narrowband to broadband critical communications, and how best to bridge the gap.

We are joined by Marja van der Kruk and Eric Davalo from Airbus DS SLC.
* Marja van der Kruk is Key Account Manager Public Safety and Strategic Sales at Airbus Secure Land Communications (SLC) and responsible for next generation mission critical communications & situational awareness solutions. * Eric Davalo joined Airbus in 2004 and has been in charge of various positions in Secured Communications, Intelligence and Cyber Security markets including strategy, marketing, portfolio management, standardization, regulation, business development, general management and technology initiatives. He is now in charge of sales, program and services delivery in Europe for Airbus Secure Land Communications portfolio.

In the evolution towards broadband mission critical communication networks, we are at an inflection point in the market, with multiple initiatives ongoing. Airbus DS SLC has many years’ experience managing large scale narrowband networks, and has been selected as a key industry partner by countries like Finland and France to help lead their transition towards a nationwide broadband network. It is clear that a strong customer-focus will be key in successfully bridging the gap here.

You can find out more about Airbus DS SLC here: https://www.securelandcommunications.com/

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In this episode, we are joined by Benoit Vivier and Freddie McBride to hear about the highlights and key messages to take away from the recent EENA 2023 conference.

Key discussion points included:
1. Cloud-based solutions and cybersecurity: EENA 2023 further highlighted the increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions. Components of NG112 and AI chatbots are now being provided through the cloud as SaaS-based services. Cybersecurity has become a major concern for emergency communication services, driving the shift towards technology as a service. 2. Call taker well-being: There is a need to discuss and address the emotional and psychological well-being of call takers working in high-stress environments. We talk about one session in particular at the conference, led by Dr. Michelle Lilly from the University of Illinois, which emphasized the importance of proper leadership and a supportive work culture. 3. The 2G/3G shutdown: EENA 2023 featured discussions on the challenges posed by the 2G/3G shutdown and the transition to packet-switched technologies. The European Accessibility Act sets deadlines for real-time text and total conversation capabilities, requiring member states to submit roadmaps detailing their plans for updating their emergency communication systems.

A huge thank you to our guests today, Benoit Viver and Freddie McBride for giving us some insight into EENA 2023 and the fantastic work the organisation continues to do for the European critical communications industry.

There is an upcoming event in Brussels on the topic of implementing the regulatory requirements discussed in this episode, happening 19-20th September 2023. Visit eena.org for more information.

EENA 2024 will be in Valencia, Spain, April 24-26th, 2024. See you there!

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In this episode we talk with STREAMWIDE about how the utilities sector is looking at changing communicaiton solutions within their organisations.

We are joined by Loren Zimmerman, Director of Sales for National Accounts at STREAMWIDE. Loren joined STREAMWIDE towards the end of 2020 with a career that has spanned market research, business development, and marketing roles.

Our key takeaways from this conversation:
* Utilities industry is still in the early stages of digital transformation * Scalability and flexibility are crucial for adoption * Collaboration and integration are key to driving innovation and enhancing security

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In this episode we share a live audio recording from the recent IWCE 2023 from a panel session chaired by Paul Bremner on the topic of Artificial Intelligence: Just Because We Can, Should We?.

On this panel we were joined by 4 passionate, knowledgable speakers, each bringing a unique point of view into this emerging area.
We were joined by:
* Christy Williams - 911 Director, NCT 911 * Bryan Schromsky - Managing Partner, 5G Public Sector, Verizon * Alan Tilles - Counsel, Law Offices of Alan Tilles * Bart Stump - Senior Systems Engineer, NetWitness

In the hour that we had, we discuss what some of the benefits of AI are for this industry, from promising applications, where it can help public safety organisations, and we hear examples of successful implementations, including by Verizon to create better performing networks. We talk about the risks and challenges associated with AI in mission critical settings, and we take a look at what the future outlook for AI in public safety is, including what steps we can take today to prepare for this future.

IWCE 2023 Digital Pass - Session Recordings
IWCE 2023 welcomed 4200+ members of the mission-critical and business critical community from around the world. While the official show days have come to an end, there is still time to purchase a Digital Pass and access 100+ hours of content from the conference panels, power sessions, keynote speakers and presentations from the Emerging Tech & Innovations Theater. Recordings will be available for full access until June 30, 2023.

If you joined us in Las Vegas (thank you!) but couldn't attend all of the compelling sessions you were interested in, no worries - your pass includes access to the recorded conference content included in your registration. Visit the Event App to view session recordings. Available through June 30, 2023.

For those who weren't able to attend - you can register for the IWCE 2023 Digital pass here: https://iwce.informatech.com/2023/registrations

Finally, a big thank you to the Informa Tech team for allowing us here at Omdia to provide you with a sneak peek into the excellent conference program that IWCE 2023 featured this year.

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In this episode we are talking about critical changes coming for critical communication spectrum at the upcoming World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-23).

Please read the TCCA Spectrum Position on World Radiocommunications Conference Agenda Item 1.5 whitepaper here: https://tcca.info/documents/July-2022-TCCA-spectrum-position.pdf/

We talk about why spectrum is important for our industry, what the key spectrum requirements are for the critical communications community, and what spectrum options exists today.

Then we get to key World Radiocommunication Conference agenda items and ask what the critical communications industry wants to see from WRC-23 and what the spectrum needs are here.

WRC-23 Agenda Item 1.5 reviews the spectrum, use and spectrum needs of existing services in the UHF frequency band 470-694MHz in Region 1 (comprising Europe, Africa, the Middle East west of the Persian Gulf, including Iraq and Mongolia).
Some administrations have expressed interest in using a portion of the band 470-694MHz for Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) applications, with an expressed requirement of 2x10MHz.
This band under discussion meets all requirements in terms of propagation characteristics, available bandwidth, timely availability and potential synergies with narrowband infrastructure.

We believe that we are still very much at a position where advocacy from individuals, individual agencies and national regulators is still really important. Your voice can, and should, be heard!

In this episode we are joined by 2 expert speakers: Luz Fernández del Rosal from BDBOS and Noel Kirkaldy from Nokia.

Luz is responsible for the coordination of the international activities and partnerships at the German Federal Agency for Public Safety Digital Radio (BDBOS) and is vice-chair of the Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG) of the TCCA.

Noel has over 30 years in the telecoms industry and has been instrumental in the development of Mission Critical solutions in several markets in the MEA region and globally. He has worked closely with Governments and Regulators and associated Industry organisations, including TCCA, to enable the allocation of additional spectrum that is required to develop these markets.

A massive thank you to both of our guests today and to TCCA for their ongoing efforts leading the global development and promotion of standardised critical communication solutions.

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In this episode, we look at the top 5 challenges we see that AI systems will have to overcome before being implemented into mission critical operations. We talk directly with ChatGPT before moving on to discuss these top 5 challenges.

We ask ChatGPT directly:
* Can you give us an overview of what ChatGPT is and how it works? * Can you give an example of a specific industry where ChatGPT has been implemented and the impact it has had? * How does ChatGPT's ability to generate human-like responses make it a valuable tool for control room operators? * What potential applications for ChatGPT can we expects to see in the near future? * Can you discuss any challenges or limitations that operators may face when incorporating ChatGPT into their workflow?

We talk about the top 5 challenges AI will face before implementation into mission critical environments. These are:
1. Reliability 2. Trust 3. Regulation 4. Integraiton with existing systems 5. Robustness

There is a great amount of potential for AI to radically shape mission critical environments of the future, but it is important to carefully consider these challenges to ensure that AI systems being deployed are reliable, trustworthy, and robust.

OMDIA is working on a comprehensive assessment of the IoT hardware, services and software market ecosystem that will shape the mission critical communicaitons industry.
Your collaboration in this study is invaluable.
Connect with Ildefonso de la Cruz or Paul Bremner on LinkedIn to participate i this study and receive an insight summary document. This document should be a valuable tool in aiding future product planning and marketing efforts.
* Ildefonso de la Cruz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ildefonsodelacruz/ * Paul Bremner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bremner/

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In this episode, Alfonso and I talk about the two latest Omdia reports covering the body worn camera and broadband critical communication markets.

We also talk about the trade shows we'll be attending in the first half of 2023, including: ISE, MWC, BAPCO, IWCE, EENA and CCW.

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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 2023.

We're joined by:
* Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia * Donny Jackson, Editor at IWCE's Urgent Communications * Erin LeMoine, Event Lead for IWCE

Check out Omdia's "2023 Trends to Watch: Critical communication" document here:
https://omdia.tradepub.com/free/w_omdi112/prgm.cgi?cccpodcast

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In this episode we take a look back at what's occurred in 2022 that's impacted the critical communications industry. We start with looking at macro econocmic trends and the effect they've had on the industry, and then talk about some of the important developments within the critical communications industry that we've seen impact this market.

2022 has been a busy year! To help cover everything that's happened we're joined by Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia; Donny Jackson, Editor at IWCE's Urgent Communications; and Erin LeMoine, Event Lead for IWCE.

Jump to topics here:
01:54 - Macro trends outside the industry that have impacted, including inflation, COVID, suply chain and semiconductors
12:33 - Return of trade shows regular schedules
15:54 - LMR market growth and funding environment
21:44 - Broadband activity including 3GPP Release 17 and Sidelink
27:19 - Nationwide mission critical network activity
34:36 - NG911 funding
36:45 - AI/ML integration in control rooms and body worn cameras with PTT
38:45 - Cloud migration

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In this episode we talk with iBwave about the ins and outs of designing and surveying public safety networks, specifically the need for designing accurate public safety networks, and the importance of testing that public safety network to ensure that it performs as required.

We are joined by Kelly Burroughs and Tony Singh from iBwave. Kelly is the Solutions DIrector at iBwave where her focus lies in innovation, technology and impact, with a particular focus on the enterprise segment. Tony is a sales engineer at iBwave and has been involved with the RF industry for more than 15 years with broad RF industry experience.

Our key takeaways from this conversation:
- The critical need for a public safety system in each building
- Accuracy is the key to designing public safety networks that function as they need to for first responders
- Continuous testing and having the right tools to do so is key to keeping a public safety network reliable

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In this episode we talk with Bedfordshire FRS about the spate of heat related incidents seen through summer of 2022 and how their new mobilising system supported their operational response to these incidents.

We are joined by Alison Kibblewhite and Jason Tai from Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service. Alison serves as the Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Bedfordshire FRS, with more than 27 years experience working in the fire sector. Jason serves as an Area Commander at Bedfordshire FRS, also with more than 27 years experiences working in the fire sector.

We hear first hand how deploying and implementing technology has allowed greater situational awareness of an incident before anyone has even arrived on scene, allowing control room operators to dispatch the appropriate resources, increasing the public and firefighter's safety.

We wrap up with 5 key recommendations for vendors:
1) Partnerships are key
Your end-users are not just your customers. Your end-users should be your partners. Collaborate and work together.

2) KISS principle
"Keep it simple stupid!" Don't over complicate. Don't fall into the trap that complexity is always better. Simple solutions, that do the job that's needed, are often the preferred approach.

3) Do what you say you do
Build products and solutions that do what they're designed to do. Additional features are great, and may be useful, but it always comes back to core functionality.

4) Empower your users
Look for ways where a collaborative approach can bring benefits to multiple parties. Empowering users by enabling cooperation between people and systems enhances organisational response.

5) Affordability at the front-end
Public safety organisations are budget limited. They are also keenly aware that procurements must show value.

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In this episode we are talking with TCCA to hear the latest updates and priorities for the organisation, and how TCCA's core missions help drive these priorities forward.

I'm joined by Kevin Graham, CEO of The Critical Communications Association (TCCA), and the former founding Chairman and Director of the Australasian Critical Communications Forum (ACCF).

We touch on how TCCA helps to provide a platform for meaningful exchange between members, TCCA's focus on standards developments, and TCCA's mission to drive global growth of the critical communications ecosystem and creating scale around the world for this market.

Find out more about TCCA by checking out their website: tcca.info

CCW 2023 Call for Content is open now. Check it out and submit your proposals by November 14th: https://www.critical-communications-world.com/submission-topics

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In this episode we are talking about Omdia's recently released whitepaper: "National Mission Critical Networks: A guideline for professional, reliable, and secure multi-agency mission-critical communications".

This whitepaper serves as a NCCN planning guideline, while outlining the importance and evolution of critical communications within this sector. The whitepaper also provides a development overview of national critical communication networks around the globe.

I'm joined by my colleague, and the whitepaper's author, Ildefonso de la Cruz. Ildefonso is a Principal Analyst here at Omdia's Public Safety and Critical Communications group, leading the LMR and broadband technologies research areas.

The whitepaper we discuss can be found here:
https://tinyurl.com/jp4ewvkn

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the whitepaper!
Connect with us on LinkedIn here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bremner/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ildefonsodelacruz/

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In this episode we are talking private 5G in enterprise mission critical communications, particularly in the manufacturing sector. We are discussing some of the latest findings from a co-authored report titled 'Demystifying Private 5G in Manufacturing: How to Seize a New Opportunity'.

I'm joined by my colleague, Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst here at Omdia's Public Safety and Critical Communications group, leading the LMR and broadband technologies research areas.

We are also joined by the report's two co-authors: Anna Ahrens and Pablo Tomasi from Omdia.

Anna focuses on industrial communications and industrial edge networking components. She examines industrial communications standards and their implementation. Anna also covers trends in industrial networking components such as IIoT gateways, routers, switches, and more.

Pablo leads the company’s research on private LTE and 5G networks. He helps clients with their strategic decisions by providing in-depth analysis of innovative technologies, strategies, regulations, and emerging ecosystems in the private networks market.

The report we discuss can be found here:
- Demystifying Private 5G in Manufacturing: How to Seize a New Opportunity: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/OM024714/Demystifying-Private-5G-in-Manufacturing-How-to-Seize-a-New-Opportunity

Feel free to reach out to Anna or Pablo using Omdia's Ask An Analyst email address: askananalyst@omdia

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This is Part 1 of a 2 part conversation on improving in-building coverage with the Safer Buildings Coalition (SBC).

Regiser to listen to part 2 for free here: https://tinyurl.com/In-building-part-2

In Part 1 we hear about the 3 pillars of in-building public safety communications: 1) mobile 911 calls must get out with location accuracy; 2) mobile mass notifications must reach building occupants; 3) first responder communications must work.

We also learn more about the specific codes and requirements building owners must comply with, who's responsibility it is to ensure these codes are complied with, and who's paying for these in-building emergency responder radio systems, also known as emergency responder communications enhancement systems (ERCES).

We're joined by Dennis J. Burns, Director of Public Safety at ADRF and the President of the Safer Buildings Coalition Board of Directors.
Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisjburns1962/

Find out more about the Safer Building Coalition here: https://www.saferbuildings.org/
Find out more about ADRF here: https://adrftech.com/

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In this episode we share market insight direct from the latest Omdia market research and anaysis covering the TETRA, PTToC and command and control room markets.

I'm joined by my colleague, Ildefonso de la Cruz, a Principal Analyst here at Omdia's public Safety and Critical Communications group, leading the LMR and broadband technologies research areas.

We share highlights from our latest published research:
- TETRA Terminals - 2022 Data: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/OM024279/Tetra-Terminals--2022-Data
- Market Landscape: Push-To-Talk over Cellular - 2022 Analysis: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/OM023681/Market-Landscape-Push-To-Talk-over-Cellular--2022-Analysis
- Command & Control Rooms Database - 2022: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/OM023703/Command--Control-Rooms-Database--2022

The podcast will be taking a bit of a break over summer for some much needed rest and relaxation.
We'll be back on the 6th September. We've got some really exciting guests and topics lined up for our return which you won't want to miss, and we'll continue to explore various facets of this industry and bring a small taste of market insight direct from Omdia.

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In this episode we share some of our key highlights from CCW 2022, product announcements that caught our eye, and what we learned from the show this year.

We're joined by three excellent industry analysts: Thomas Lynch, Ken Rehbehn and Ildefonso de la Cruz.
Connect with them on LinkedIn here:
Thomas Lynch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-lynch-428412a/
Ken Rehbehn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-rehbehn/
Ildefonso de le Cruz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ildefonsodelacruz/

From the event we talk about the Government Authorities Global Village (GAGV) and some of the issues still lurking, including the complexity of national, multi-year projects, outstanding questions on resilience, and spectrum allocation and devices.

From the product announcements we talk about the various Motorola Solutions' announcements, including the MXP7000 and MXM7000 launch and Critical Connect expanding. We talk about Sepura's SCU3 mobile vehicle unit, Hytera's thrust into private 5G networking, and Zebra Technologies ET45 tablet for field command and control.

We also saw a long list of MCx solution demos during the show. On that note, you can find Omdia's Push-To-Talk over Cellular – 2022 report here: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/OM025195/Push-To-Talk-over-Cellular--2022-Data

CCW 2023 will be held in Helsinki between the 23-25th May. See you there!

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In this episode, we are joined by the Verizon Frontline team to dispel five common myths in the mission critical market which can mislead public safety decision makers.

We're joined by Cory Davis, who serves as the National Director for the Verizon Response & Public Safety Operations team, and Arshdeep Sawhney, the Director of Product Management for the Public Sector portfolio in Verizon Business Group.

The myths we cover in this episode include:

1 There is a federally mandated public safety network

2 Agencies are mandated to use one specific carrier only

3 Only one carrier has "always on" priority features

4 Wireless carriers can have 100% of their sites backed up by permanent generators

5 Wireless carrier networks are not secure

Connect with our guests on LinkedIn here:
Cory Davis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corywdavis/
Arshdep Sawhney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arshdeep-sawhney-aa473027/

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In this episode we’re talking about standardisation again, but this time from a vendor's perspective. We address the misconception that vendor's ultimate interest is a closed environment, ways to avoid vendor lock in, and we’re throwing in a bit of SaaS here too.

We're joined by Manuel Hintermayr, Director of Sales at Frequentis, and Wolfgang Kampichler, Principal Scientist at Frequentis.
Connect with them on LinkedIn here:
Manuel Hintermayr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-hintermayr-752a3511/
Wolfgang Kampichler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfgang-kampichler-03431517/

Find out more about Frequentis here: https://www.frequentis.com/

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In this episode we cover the highlights from the latest EENA 2022 event and conference, including the latest updates on NG112, progress on vertical/indoor location, potential dangers relating to VoLTE, and recapping the message around standardisation from both ETSI and 3GPP.

We're joined by Benoit Viver, Public Affairs Manager at EENA, and Freddie McBride, Director of Digital Communications Policy and Regulation at EENA.
Connect with them on LinkedIn here:
Benoit Viver: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benoitvivier/
Freddie McBride: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddie-mcbride-5205954/

Interested in a particular topic?
Jump to the discussions here:
2:23 - Who are EENA, what do they do?
5:49 - NG112
14:56 - vertical and indoor location
20:18 - VoLTE
24:37 - Standardisation

Find out more about Rudolf van der Berg's EENA presentation on the lack of VoLTE standardisation breaking voice calling globally by checking out his presentation here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WC16k8C1gpeFRJif23yDIuLSRg1OJOnZ/view

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show? Interested in joining as a guest?
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In this episode we learn more about the MCS Testing-as-a-Service (TaaSting) project, how it works, who is involved, and what the involvement of TCCA looks like. We also talk more broadly around standards in general and what the benefits standards-based mission critical solutions bring to the market for both vendors and end-users.

We're joined by Harald Ludwig Chair of TCCA's Technical Forum, and Dr. Fidel Liberal, a professor at the University of the Basque Country, and the coordinator of the MCS TaaSting project.
Connect with them on Linkedin here:
Harald Ludwig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harald-ludwig/
Dr. Fidel Liberal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fidel-liberal-9b5b785/

Find out more about MCS TaaSting here: https://www.mcstaasting.com/#project
Find out more about TCCA here: https://tcca.info/

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In this episode we're joined by two special guests from InterTalk who talk to us about how radio communications dispatch is changing. We cover topics including how cloud and SaaS is changing radio dispatch, some of the benefits a vendor-agnostic dispatch console can bring, and where people struggle when refreshing their voice dispatch systems.

We're joined by Bryan Wiens, Senior Product Manager, and Chris Oldham, President at InterTalk.
Connect with them on Linkedin here:
Bryan Wiens - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bwiens/
Chris Oldham - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-oldham-0843673b/

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We talk with SSS Public Safety's Matt Palmer about the future of public safety control rooms and the challenges end-users are facing as control rooms face a triple threat from digital, data and technology evolution.

Matt is the Product Director at SSS Public Safety whose solutions encompass control rooms and contact centers, integrated communications, digital evidence management, records management, ERP solutions and critical messaging services. Before this, Matt was the product manager for the control room solutions offering for almost a decade, bringing a wealth of subject matter expertise to this topic.

Get in touch with Matt via LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-palmer-b5408991/
Find out more about SSS Public Safety here: https://sss-publicsafety.com/

Check out The Future of UK Public Safety Control Rooms whitepaper here:
https://sss-publicsafety.com/collateral/557/

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We have another post-event episode for you where we cover the highlights from IWCE in Las Vegas, including interoperability, MCPTT, spectrum, and more!

We're joined once more by Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia, and Ken Rehbehn, Principal Analyst with Critical Communications Insights.

If you have questions for either, or would like to contact them, their respective LinkedIn’s can be found here:
Ildefonso de la Cruz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ildefonsodelacruz/
Ken Rehbehn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-rehbehn/

Have a topic you’d like to discuss on the show?
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In this episode we gather to share some of our highlights from both the conference sessions and the exhibition floor of BAPCO 2022.

We're joined once more by Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia, and Ken Rehbehn, Principal Analyst with Critical Communications Insights.

Some of the highlights we cover include ESN, Tait, Handsfree, Regola and NEC.

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We talk with Motorola Solutions' Jehan Wickramasuriya about leveraging machine learning for mission critical artificial intelligence. We talk about defining artificial intelligence, the role it has within critical communications, and why mission critical AI is special.

Jehan is the Vice President for AI, Data and User Experience at Motorola Solutions. He is responsible for Motorola Solutions Artificial Intelligence and systems, UX research and design teams, and has product responsibility for the public safety data platform and common services teams, which includes product responsibility for aspects of the CommandCentral platform.

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In this episode we talk MNOs in public safety, and how the movement towards mission critical broadband is playing out from a market perspective, how it's changing the nature of the trade shows that this industry has come to know well through the years, and in particular how the IWCE organisation is responding o these market changes.

We're joined by three guests to cover these areas, including:
- Alfonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst leading the critical communications broadband market research here at Omdia
- Stephanie McCall, Director of Sales at IWCE, IWCE's Urgent Communications and American City & County
- Donny Jackson, Editor of IWCE'S Urgent Communications

Jump to the action here:
02:53: Market developments and MNOs in public safety with Alfonso de la Cruz
09:34: How market developments are leading to change at shows like IWCE, and how is IWCE responding to these changes? With Stephanie McCall
16:54: Any specifics we should be looking out for at IWCE? Wth Donny Jackson

Join me at IWCE 2022 where I'll be joined by my colleagues Alfonso de la Cruz and Oliver Philippou as we talk about the must-have products and technologies for mission critical communications by 2025.
Use the promo code SPEAKER20 to register for 20% off a conference pass or Free expo pass.
Register here: iwceexpo.com

Find our session here: https://agenda.iwceexpo.com/session/the-must-have-products-and-technologies-for-mission-critical-communications-by-2025/885756?_mc=sem_iwce_sem_iwce_evct_tspr__2022

Finally, to find out more about the latest Critical Communications Broadband Report released by Alfonso de la Cruz and referenced in this episode, find it here: https://omdia.tech.informa.com/products/critical-communications-broadband-report---2021

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We talk with TCCA's Tero Pesonen, Director and Board Vice-Chair as well as Chair of the Critical Communications Broadband Group (CCBG) on how broadband LTE is transforming the critical communications industry, and the strategies MNO's are taking when addressing this market.

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We talk with the International Critical Control Rooms Alliance (ICCRA) about their important role in bringing end-users, vendors and service providers together to more effectively tackle common challenges faced by critical control rooms across industries. Our guest this episode is Chris Dreyfus-Gibson, who talks to us about control room evolution and the common themes he is seeing across critical control rooms.

Chris is the founding Vice Chair of ICCRA, a former senior police officer, and has held the posts of Head of the Force Control Room, Deputy Head of Policing on the London Underground, and Deputy Head of the Counter-Terrorism Support Unit. He currently leads the UK public safety practice for a global consultancy supporting law enforcement organisations.

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We take a look at some of the industry trends that will impact the critical communications market in 2022. In this episode we bring together multiple guests to share their view on what the most critical market trends for 2022 will be.

We touch upon a wide range of trends for 2022 in this episode, ranging from 3GPP standardised LTE, the expansion of ESN Connect, aging VHF radio systems, drone usage in public safety, body-worn cameras, the LMR installed base, spectrum sharing, FirstNet, IoT devices, the role of LEO, and hyperscalers in control rooms.

We're joined by four inredible guests:
- Thomas Lynch, Executive Director at Omdia
- Ken Rehbehn, Principal Analyst at Critical Communications Insights and Contributing Analyst at Omdia
- Donny Jackson, Editor of IWCE's Urgent Communications
- Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia

Hear from each of us here:
0:57 Ken Rehbehn - Movement away from vendor silos; exansion of ESN Connect; aging VHF radio systems; the early days of drone usage
06:08 Thomas Lynch - Body-worn cameras driving media usage; the increase in LMR installed base
10:40 Ildefonso de la Cruz - Hybrid devices in critical communications
12:07 Donny Jackson - Spectrum sharing; IoT devices; FirstNet; the role of LEO
18:52 Paul Bremner - Hyperscalers fundamentally changing the control room market

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In this episode we bring together multiple guests to help summarise critical communication industry developments through 2021 and share what we've learnt, and how the industry has changed over the year.

We touch upon a huge range of topics in this episode, ranging from critical communications market resilience, hybrid LMR/LTE devices, national mission critical networks, direct mode, control room applications, supply chain issues, cybersecurity, NG911 standards and funding, LMR maintenance deals, and right through to digital transformation in control rooms!

We're also joined for the first time by Donny Jackson. Donny is the Editor of IWCE’S Urgent Communications, and has been generating content for the critical communications arena for almost two decades now, while also contributing to curating and participating in the annual IWCE conference program.

Our other guests for this episode include:
- Thomas Lynch, Executive Director at Omdia
- Ken Rehbehn, Principal Analyst at Critical Communications Insights and Contributing Analyst at Omdia
- Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia

Hear from each of us here:
2:00 Thomas Lynch - 2021 Critical Communications industry overview
6:36 Ken Rehbehn - LTE/LMR device maturation and expansion; exanding array of national activity to launch Mission Critical networks; the enigma of Direct Mode; control room applications in the field
14:39 Ildefonso de la Cruz - Critical communications market resilience; supply chain issues
17:38 Donny Jackson - Cybersecurity; supply chain issues; NG911 standards and funding; strength of LMR maintenance deals
25:00 Paul Bremner - Digital transformation in control rooms

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Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) have moved from being a safe cities platform to reaching much wider into other facets of day-to-day city management, leading to increased demands for unified city wide communication systems to manage this complexity. Our guest this week is Thomas Lynch who talks to us about the role of critical communications in ITS.

Thomas Lynch leads the physical security and critical communications research team at Omdia. He and his team examine markets ranging from video surveillance and access control equipment, through to LMR and LTE communication technologies, command and control/PSAP technologies, fire and intruder detection equipment, right through to safe cities. He has more than 20 years of experience providing industry-leading insights, as well as over 20 years of operational, military, engineering communications, and security experience prior to switching over to the world of industry analysis.

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

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In this episode we cover some of the key highlights and what we learned from CCW 2021, including Spain's path towards a mission critical public safety broadband network, LMR sunsetting strategies different national MCC agencies are adopting, and exhibitor product announcements that caught our eye.

We're joined by two incredible industry analysts in the form of Ildefonso de la Cruz, Principal Analyst at Omdia, and Ken Rehbehn, Principal Analyst at Critical Communications Insights, who shared their thoughts on the conference, exhibition, and sessions they moderated at CCW 2021.

Critical Communications World, CCW, is one of the world’s leading critical communications conference and exhibition events, the show is usually held some time in June. However, this year's event took place on the 3-5th November in Madrid, Spain.

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

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In this episode we share some of the highlights from the BAPCO 2021 trade show, including ESN updates, the UK's PSTN shutdown, cloud adoption within control rooms and more. We are once more joined by Alfonso de la Cruz, the lead analyst for the Critical Communications Mobile Radio Infrastructure (LMR & Broadband).

BAPCO is an annual conference and exhibition that covers critical communication and public safety solutions. The show this year was held on 12th and 13th October in Coventry in the UK.

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For 45 years, the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) has been North America's premier critical communications event. It is the one place where critical communications technology professionals gather to evaluate, learn and network with industry leaders.

This week we take a look back at IWCE 2021, the first in-person IWCE show since 2019. Our guest this week is Paul Caplan who shares some of his top highlights and his thoughts on the role of IWCE within the critical communications industry.

Paul Caplan is the Vice President of the Government & Manufacturing Markets segment of Informa Tech and has a deep background in B2B/B2C marketing, advertising and communications, and media operations across all platforms and channels.

Paul's personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-caplan-7203954/
Find out more about IWCE here: https://www.iwceexpo.com/

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

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Critical communications and in particular "mission critical" in usage quite often refers to public safety applications, but there's another group outside of publc safety users. Our guest this week is Alfonso de la Cruz who talks to us about this "forgotten group".

Alfonso de la Cruz is a principal analyst in the Public Safety & Critical Communications group at OMDIA. Based in London, UK, he is the lead analyst for the Critical Communications Mobile Radio Infrastructure (LMR & Broadband), providing market data and strategic insights into the evolution of the international landscape of critical communication solutions for Government Public Safety and Private Industrial connectivity. Prior to his current role as a Critical Communications technology expert, Alfonso’s responsibilities included the innovative product strategy and commercial development of cellular 5G network solutions and the development of Private Connectivity Network deployments across different industries and a wide range of channels that include Service Providers and Telcos, large enterprises, SMB companies, and B2G government agencies across the globe. Alfonso holds an M.Eng. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Imperial College London and an M.Sc. in Wireless Communications from the Seoul National University.

Alfonso's personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ildefonsodelacruz/

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