The Interoperability Continuum is designed to help the public safety community and local, tribal, state, and federal policy makers address critical elements for success as they plan and implement interoperability solutions. These elements include governance, standard operating procedures, technology, training/exercises, and usage of interoperable communications.
The Interoperability Continuum was developed in accordance with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science & Technology (S&T) Directorates Office for Interoperability and Compatibility's SAFECOM program's locally driven philosophy and its practical experience in working with local governments across the nation. This tool was established to depict the core facets of interoperability according to the stated needs and challenges of the public safety community and will aid public safety practitioners and policy makers in their short- and long-term interoperability efforts.
To drive progress along the five elements of the continuum and improve interoperability, public safety practitioners should observe the following principles:
- Gain leadership commitment from all disciplines [Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Fire, Law Enforcement],
- Foster collaboration across disciplines (EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement) through leadership support,
- Interface with policy makers to gain leadership commitment and resource support,
- Use interoperability solutions on a regular basis,
- Plan and budget for ongoing updates to systems, procedures, and documentation, and
- Ensure collaboration and coordination across all elements [Governance, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Technology, Training/Exercises, Usage].
Also see the Interactive Interoperability Continuum.