Go, or No Go? New LA-RICS public-safety LTE plan gives NTIA, FirstNet a lot to consider

Another issue that needs to be assessed is whether the Motorola Solutions sites can be integrated into the overall FirstNet system at a later date. Theoretically, this should be the case—everything is supposed to follow LTE standards—but my understanding is that there are not a lot of multiple-vendor networks in the commercial world.

Then again, maybe this is an opportunity to see if a multiple-vendor solution can work. I’m sure this is much easier to do in a column than in real life, but FirstNet could have LA-RICS build its network as planned by the CAP and then partner with a carrier to help fill in any coverage/capacity gaps.

Not only could this be useful as a pilot to determine whether multiple vendors in a given geographic region is a realistic option, but it also could be used as an opportunity to try one of the secondary-market models—selling excess network capacity to help fund the network—that are expected to play a crucial role in FirstNet’s overall economic viability.

Certainly, if a secondary-market model doesn’t work in Los Angeles—one of hottest mobile markets in the world—it probably won’t work anywhere.

While I believe this would make sense in a vacuum, the fact that FirstNet still hopes to release its final RFP by the end of the year might prevent this notion from being practical. Depending on the targeted timeline, a secondary-market trial may not have enough time to develop in a manner where the knowledge could be used for the nationwide buildout. In addition, complicating a key market like Los Angeles may not be attractive to potential bidders.

There are lots of choices and lots to consider surrounding LA-RICS. These are not all of the factors that I know to be at play, and I am sure there are many other influences that have not even crossed my mind. Whatever the decision, making the right choice on LA-RICS is important, because it will be perceived as a flagship project by many.