URISA/NENA Addressing Conference Workshops
Pre-Conference Workshops
Monday, April 7, 2008
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Begin the conference by taking one of three pre-conference workshops. These full-day courses run from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a ninety minute break for lunch (not provided). There are additional fees for these courses.
Workshops are classroom experiences and the number of attendees for each course is limited. Register early to make sure you receive your first choice!
Workshop #1
Introduction to Next Generation 9-1-1
Instructor: Christy Williams, ENP, 9-1-1 Program Manager, North Central Texas COG, Arlington, TX
This course focuses on impact that Next Generation (NG) 9-1-1 will have on the 9-1-1 community. This new wave of technology is the next major shift toward a whole new level of communications systems and integration that is guaranteed to change conventional means of accessing emergency services. It will also change the entire technological landscape within which existing Public Safety agencies operate. All means of communications will be affected by NG9-1-1 and its technological spin offs. With it comes a whole new realm of issues (both pro and con) for 9-1-1 centers and emergency service providers. NG9-1-1 will add more change to how emergency service calls originate, and how they are routed and delivered to PSAPs.
This course examines the history and evolution of data networks and I/P based communications, how NENA is involved, and what future Regulatory issues may be necessary to ensure a seamless transition. This course also addresses traditional 9-1-1 model caller issues such as caller location and caller identity, as well as networking infrastructure, threat-risk assessments, and a variety of other interrelated issues.
Workshop #2
Understanding GIS for the PSAP
Instructor: Marc Berryman, Greater Harris County E911 Network, Houston, TX
GIS technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in 911 centers around the nation. Wireless Phase I and Phase II implementations are pushing many call centers to become more aware of this technology. Being able to plot the location of a wireless, or wireline caller, on a map has tremendous benefits in emergency operations.
This course will demonstrate what GIS is; why GIS is needed; how to acquire, correct, and maintain your GIS data; and how to develop, maintain, and fund a GIS. GIS data includes streets, emergency service zones, cellular tower locations and sector coverage, and a variety of other information deemed important for various public safety functions.
No prequisite or prior GIS experience is required. Basic computer knowledge would be beneficial. Basic knowledge of 9-1-1 operations would be beneficial.
Workshop #3
Addresses and IS/GIS Implementation: Key to GIS Success
Instructor: Martha Wells, GISP, Spatial Focus, Birmingham, AL
Street addresses are the key, user-friendly geospatial identifier used by everyone, but addressing processes are usually poorly organized at the local level.
This workshop will help you understand the addressing process, managing address data, and organizational challenges. It will guide you in developing a Master Address Repository that serves the needs of the entire organization.
Specific topics include:
- What is an address?
- What are the types of address?
- How are addressing systems structured, and addresses assigned?
- How do you develop a Master Address Repository
- Geocoding and managing addresses in the GIS
- Organizational Issues with Addressing
Again, you must pre-register for the workshops. Don't delay!