Multi-agency AV solutions

Clearer information. Better connected teams. More informed decisions.

The operational challenge

During a major incident, emergency services need a clear view of a rapidly changing situation. Police, fire and ambulance teams must be able to share information, coordinate their actions and direct resources where they are needed most.

Well-designed audio-visual technology can help bring that information together, connecting command centres, mobile units and operational teams. This illustrative multi-agency disaster response exercise shows how integrated AV solutions can support a more coordinated response.

The objectives

• Build a shared operational picture

Bring live video, maps and relevant data into view so participating agencies can better understand the incident as it develops.

• Improve communication between agencies

Enable command teams, responders and key stakeholders to share information clearly and maintain a consistent understanding of priorities.

• Support effective resource deployment

Give decision-makers timely visual information to help assess requirements and allocate personnel and equipment.

The priority is practical: make critical information easier to access, understand and act on when teams are working under pressure.

The solution approach

The exercise brings together command centre displays, mobile communications and wearable technology to illustrate how information can move between teams. Each element would need to be selected and integrated around the agencies’ operational requirements and existing systems.

Command centre visualisation

Large-format LED video walls can display live feeds from drones, CCTV and body-worn cameras alongside maps and incident data. This gives command teams a shared view of key information to support briefings and operational decisions.

Mobile command units

Portable AV systems and video conferencing can connect mobile command teams with the central command centre and other agencies, supporting information sharing as the response develops.

Wearable information tools

Where suitable for the operational setting, augmented reality glasses can provide responders with maps, instructions and relevant data overlays. Their use would need to be assessed and tested within the exercise to establish practical value.

The intended benefits

• Greater situational awareness — A shared view of live information can help teams understand changing conditions and identify priorities.

• More informed decisions — Clear visual information can support timely assessment and reduce the need to piece together updates from separate sources.

• Better coordination — Connected command teams and responders can align actions more effectively across participating agencies.

• More effective use of resources — Current incident information can help decision-makers direct personnel and equipment where they are most needed.

• Practical support for responders — Suitable wearable tools may make relevant information accessible while leaving hands free for operational tasks.

The value for blue light services

The value of AV lies in how effectively it supports the people managing and responding to an incident. TOPAZ’s design-led approach brings together visual information and communication tools around operational needs, helping agencies develop solutions that are practical to use and support.

A multi-agency exercise provides an opportunity to test these capabilities, gather user feedback and assess their contribution before wider deployment.