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Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) Requirements and RFP Development for CAD Procurement for Northwestern Seaport
Project Description
A northwestern seaboard port contracted with SDI to provide Professional Services relating their CAD System Replacement Initiative.
Under the direction of the port police and fire departments, and in collaboration with the IT Department, the Project Team conducted interviews with dispatchers, IT personnel, airport operations management, and the port's mutual aid partners. The Team developed a series of strategic and tactical recommendations to improve the port’s 9-1-1 practices and to assist them with 365x24x7 support needs for this life-safety, mission-critical application.
As the primary users of the dispatch system, the Team interviewed the port’s 9-1-1 dispatchers to capture user requirements for improving dispatch operations.
The Team collaborated with the port’s IT Department to develop detailed system requirements, including custom interfaces to alarm, access control, CCTV, and other security systems and worked closely with the purchasing department to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) document for the port’s use in procuring a system. The Team also conducted in-depth research of the CAD system industry and provided the port with an assessment of CAD system products and vendors.
Goals
- Provide an assessment of the port’s 9-1-1 operations and systems and compare to nationwide Airport Public Safety Best Practices
- Develop CAD system requirements specific to the port's unique seaport/airport needs
- Expedite the RFP development and CAD system vendor assessment process
- Improve the 9-1-1 dispatch environment through streamlined processes and simplified systems
Solution/Services
- Review and assess 9-1-1 operations, systems, and policies
- Research and assess CAD system industry, vendors, and products
- Develop detailed Requirements Documentation for CAD system
- Develop RFP document for CAD system purchase
Result
The resulting business practice review report formed the basis for several forward-looking recommendations for improved processes and provided a detailed series of CAD system requirements for the RFP. Successful delivery of a RFP document, as well a timeline and budget for their future CAD system replacement initiative, has allowed the port to move forward with plans for their 9-1-1 center’s modernization and enhancement.
