INTEROPERABILITY CHALLENGES AMONG PUBLIC SAFETY RADIO SYSTEMS: SURVEYED RESEARCH ADDRESSING THESE CHALLENGES

Nancy L. Huyck Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

ABSTRACT

This study presents a survey of the research relating to the current radio communication problems experienced by first responders. Varying schools of thought are introduced to identify and discuss the most prevalent theories to date on how to best upgrade public safety radio communications systems. This literature review builds on background knowledge of public sector emergency management as it applies to first responders and, information technology, as well as publications discussing public safety communications policy and federal grant programs as they pertain to interoperable radio systems.