Transitioning to a Hybrid Communication Model: A Practical Approach

To ensure a smooth migration to hybrid or full Mission Critical Services (MCX), organisations must take a practical, phased approach that considers the operational needs of mission-critical users, as well as budget constraints, the complexity of vehicle upgrades, and user readiness.

Why Choose a Hybrid Communication Model?

Hybrid communication models offer a balanced approach to modernising mission-critical communications. By combining the reliability of TETRA with the advanced capabilities of LTE, organisations can:

• Maintain trusted voice communication in areas with limited connectivity while introducing high-speed data services
• Improve situational awareness through access to real-time video streaming, data sharing and other applications
• Enable gradual technology adoption without disrupting existing operations
• Achieve financial efficiencies by avoiding large-scale, upfront expenditure
• Benefit from device consolidation, reducing the number of units and space required, and simplifying maintenance

This approach ensures continuity, enhances operational effectiveness, and prepares organisations for future advancements in mission-critical communications. For organisations progressing towards full MCX deployment, hybrid communication provides a stable and strategic stepping stone, allowing teams to adapt gradually and confidently.

Four practical considerations for implementing a hybrid TETRA and LTE communication solution

1. Strategic Financial and Resource Planning

Transitioning to a hybrid model requires careful planning and budgeting. Rapid, large-scale changes can lead to confusion and inefficiencies. Instead, organisations should:

• Conduct early assessments to identify potential challenges and implementation strategies
• Carry out a detailed user needs analysis to understand individual user requirements, which can differ widely between teams and roles
• Determine criteria early for device selection and consider selecting devices that support backward compatibility to reduce total cost of ownership
• Plan to reuse existing accessories and infrastructure where possible to avoid prohibitive upfront costs and enable more strategic allocation of budget
• Involve users early in the planning process to support informed decision-making and encourage adoption

Early planning and smart decisions lay the groundwork for a cost-effective, well-adopted hybrid communication strategy.

2. Early Vehicle Upgrade Planning

Upgrading vehicle systems to deploy Mission Critical LTE introduces complex logistical challenges and can often be the most time-consuming part of a hybrid or broadband migration. For example, upgrading 5,000 vehicles at a rate of three per day could take over five years. Downtime for installations, if not managed properly, can also severely strain operations, especially in large fleets.
Organisations should:

• Start vehicle planning early to balance scheduled technology upgrades with ongoing operations
• Engage vendors to understand costs, logistics, solution options and timelines
• Allocate resources for installation, training and anticipated downtime
• Consolidate vehicle equipment where possible and ensure compatibility with existing systems

A well-coordinated upgrade strategy maintains service continuity, removes inefficient installations and supports successful MCX integration.

3. Training for Technological Change

Effective training for staff to use new devices and systems is vital for a smooth transition and successful adoption. Structured training programmes help minimise reluctance to change and increase users’ proficiency with upgraded devices.

Training programmes should be structured, role-specific and tailored to suit the needs of different user groups. Delivery methods may include workshops, online modules or hands-on sessions, depending on what best supports each team.

4. User-Centred Feature Rollouts

To maximise the benefits of broadband, organisations should introduce new features through structured rollouts supported by regular feedback cycles. This approach reduces the risk of delivering an impractical solution and enables:

• Smoother adoption of new technologies and minimal operational disruption
• Better alignment with user needs through continuous input and feedback
• Incremental testing and process optimisation throughout
• Clearer communication and reduced confusion for radio users

A user-focused approach leads to practical, efficient solutions that enhance the overall experience.

Conclusion

Adopting a hybrid model necessitates strategic planning, careful implementation and ongoing adaptation – but the benefits are clear. This methodical approach lays a solid foundation. By prioritising budgeting, training, vehicle installations and user feedback, organisations can enhance communication with broadband technology while minimising operational disruption.