Maximize Communications Interoperability
One initiative in response to the 9/11 Report sets aside major funding for the Department of Homeland Security to identify and conduct research on key technological challenges to homeland security. The primary focus of the development programs would be interoperable communications. An Office of Public Safety Interoperable Communications would be established to pursue this. The bill authorizes $3.7 million in grants to universities to be issued with the National Science Foundation, and $20 million to establish programs with friendly governments, including Israel and the United Kingdom.
CyberSecurity
A proposed new position of Assistant Secretary for Cybersecurity within the Department of Homeland Security would be responsible to develop and oversee the department’s cybersecurity infrastructure protection programs and would have authority over the National Communications System. The new position would interface with federal agencies, the private sector, state and local governments. Recently, Amit Yoran, the Directorate for Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection, DHS National Cyber Security Division director, stepped down from his position. There have been many requests for a higher profile for CyberSecurity.
RapidCom 9/30
The Homeland Security Department initiated a project in September to improve emergency communications between emergency responders in the 10 most vulnerable metro areas: Boston, Chicago, Houston, Jersey City (N.J.), Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington. Once completed the interoperability model will be offered to other urban areas in the event of a large-scale emergency. Local government agencies looking for affordable solutions to emergency communications can utilize the Confer ALERT or Confer ECS. A Forum Conference Specialist can help understand your needs and help you with product materials and demonstrations. Call 972-680-0700.
Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have A Conference Call?
Homeland Security and TSA are implementing the Registered Traveler Program
in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Houston, Boston and at National Airport (Washington,
DC). Travelers provide eye scans, fingerprints and photographs through a
pre-screening process and are checked against terrorist and criminal databases.
Qualified travelers enjoy accelerated security screening. According to Secretary
Tom Ridge, frequent travelers are willing to pay to join the program to
expedite airport screening. Or you could look into Forum’s products,
especially WebMeet for conferencing collaboration,
sharing and instant messaging to enhance your voice conference calls and
avoid the hassle of flying.
