Next Generation 9-1-1 is implemented in select cities across the nation, hoping to transform the way we utilize wireless emergency communication.

On June 16th, 2008, five cities across the United States began testing the first stages of the "Next Generation 9-1-1" (NG9-1-1) system, a Department of Transportation project funded by the Intelligent Transportation Joint Program Office. Selected from over 50 applicants, the Public Safety Answering Points or PSAPs, located in Rochester, NY; Seattle, WA; St. Paul, MN; Bozeman, MT; and Fort Wayne, IN will be essential in collecting data related to the feasibility of successful nationwide implementation.

The same 9-1-1 technology has been around for decades, with the 40th birthday of the first 9-1-1 call being celebrated earlier this year. While this technology has received minor facelifts to reflect major technology breakthroughs, this initiative would completely overhaul wireless emergency communication across the country. Current 9-1-1 technology is primarily compatible with only voice media. The NG9-1-1 system aims to facilitate the transfer of data and video media as well, reflecting the evolution of communication as a whole. The system also makes advances in the transmission of data related to an emergency through technologies such as advanced Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and call locators for wireless and voice-over internet protocol (IP) based calls. IP based technology is positioned to be at the core of the future of NG9-1-1.

Continuing until November 2008, this initial test of the NG9-1-1 system will illustrate what lies ahead for U.S. call centers in the next 10 years. While the price tag for this entire transition could reach upwards of $60 billion according to a Booz Allen Hamilton representative, interoperability and long-term viability are the keys to its value. Currently, INPUT is tracking more than 20 opportunities related to consolidated, enhanced, or Next Generation 9-1-1 systems across the country. Successful completion, evaluation, and implementation of more test projects could mean more opportunities to build a public safety communication foundation flexible enough to survive in our ever-increasingly mobile society.