DHS’ SAFECOM Program endorses a model of governance that involves local practitioner leadership at each level. Begin by identifying organizational structures currently in place that support communications interoperability planning processes. After identifying groups that organize themselves around improving communications interoperability across the state, begin to consider how or if they are locally-driven and practitioner-focused. As the support of local and state level leadership is critical to the successful development and implementation of a statewide communications interoperability plan, your state should support a governance approach that encourages transparency, accountability, and collaboration through:
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Leadership representative of a broad spectrum of local level public safety,
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Participatory decision making,
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Supporting legislation that enforces timely and cost-efficient implementation of statewide communications interoperability,
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Relationship building at the local, state, tribal, and federal level, and
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Outcome-based strategic planning.
An accurate assessment of structures currently in place and their alignment with a locally-driven philosophy will highlight those organizations and individuals that may serve as the foundation for a future governance model.
Please see Appendix E for more information on SAFECOM’s approach to governance.
Please see Additional Resources for a Weblink to the National Taskforce on Interoperability (NTFI)’s “Why Can’t We Talk” publication for additional governance-related information.