Zuercher and Next Generation 911

Next Generation 911 is coming. The communication technology used by the public is different than it was decades ago. It’s time for a 911 system that’s adapted to the faster, more flexible way that people communicate today. 

We know it’s only a matter of time before each public safety agency will implement a NG911 system. To prepare for these transitions, Zuercher Technologies has been working to make certain that Zuercher CAD, Zuercher Mapping, and Zuercher Insight Mapping will work with these updated 911 systems. Here’s a look at what to expect:

Handling New Data

The biggest (and probably most widely known) change related to NG911 is a substantial increase in the types of data which can be transmitted from callers to the 911 centers and their 911 call handling systems. Right now, the information is limited to the ANI/ALI data associated with the phone call itself. However, NG911 requires that dispatch centers be able to receive text messages, photos and videos through connected 911 systems. In addition, statewide GIS databases are being implemented to use GIS data and maps to route the calls to the appropriate public safety answering point.

Today, Zuercher Technologies imports data from agencies’ 911 systems to Zuercher CAD, Zuercher Mapping, and Zuercher Insight Mapping ensuring that all critical data elements from a 911 call are present in a CAD call for service (CFS). After the 911 system receives 911 caller data elements (such as caller name, telephone number, carrier, and coordinates) Zuercher CAD automatically pre-populates this information into the CFS window.  Zuercher CAD and Zuercher Insight Mapping provide similar functionality by providing the 911 call directly onto the map.

As more and more NG911 data elements are collected by the 911 systems, Zuercher Technologies will also map these to the appropriate fields in each CFS. Zuercher CAD already allows users to attach audio, video, and other media files to a CFS and the resulting case reports.

Running on a Distributed Network

To be compliant with other changes that are coming as a result of NG911, CAD systems will need to run on a distributed network. In GIS map based distributed networks, the servers are at one location and other locations run off the servers across a wide area network (WAN).  The underlying state GIS mapping system ensures that the call is routed to the appropriate PSAP.

Zuercher CAD is already running on a distributed network for a number of its clients. An excellent example of this would be how Zuercher CAD is deployed (along with Zuercher Mapping, Zuercher Mobile CAD, Zuercher Records and Zuercher Mobile Records) at the South Dakota Highway Patrol (SDHP). SDHP has three dispatch facilities – east, central, and west – covering an area of more than 64,000 square miles. All the Zuercher Suite servers are located in the central region’s dispatch facility and the other facilities are connected back to those main servers.

However, since each dispatch region has different processes, SDHP has configured Zuercher CAD at each facility to function and operate according to regional needs and ways of doing business. In a similar way, we’re prepared to configure Zuercher CAD as needed as our client agencies move toward NG911.

Continued Support

911 interfaces are becoming more and more sophisticated with the adoption of NG911, and Zuercher CAD, Zuercher Mapping, and Zuercher Insight Mapping offer a clear path forward for your agency. As in the past, the Zuercher products will continue to interface and be included in the comprehensive maintenance and support agreement offered by Zuercher Technologies. Upgrades and changes to Zuercher products, to enable further transitions from E-911 integration to NG911 integration, are also covered under this agreement. Zuercher GIS Services contracts will support the GIS data conversion required by a move to a new system.

We’re Ready

Our mission is to create a product that will be your long-term solution. NG911 is here, or soon to come, for all agencies. Whether you’re looking for a new software system or wondering if your existing system can rise to the demands of NG911, know that Zuercher Technologies is ready and able to meet your needs.