How to Design a Better Global Security Operations Center

When planning your global security operations center, things like efficiency, durability, ergonomics and adaptability should always be top of mind.

But this isn’t always the case, and many GSOCs are designed without these principles in mind. Standard ergonomic guidelines often do not take into account the unique technological needs of the modern GSOC.

Below, we explain what to look for when buying global security consoles and how to develop a layout that makes smart use of space.

Plan for Tomorrow: Incorporate Recent GSOC Technology Updates

Before you plan your layout, consider all the technology and equipment your operators use on a regular basis, as well as any equipment you know of that your organization may transition to.

Obviously, it is impossible to futureproof for the entire life of your GSOC, but with good planning, your designs and layout should take into consideration at least several years of technological updates.

New technological advancements are appearing every day, many of which create changes in GSOC best practices and needs. You may find that you need more operators or more storage space later on, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and leave space for extra consoles, monitors, and other equipment that may be needed.

In addition, taking into account the actual workflow of operators and tailoring the design to their needs will ensure the success of the project.

Which equipment will operators need to keep close at hand? Are there certain people who should have their stations near each other to work efficiently? Plan your GSOC layout and console setup accordingly.

Plan for Longevity: Choose Quality Global Security Consoles

A high-performing global security operations center needs superior quality console furniture that is designed with GSOC needs in mind. Consoles should provide flexible technology configuration and come with an excellent warranty.

Ideally, your global security consoles should include:

• Easily accessible, adjustable mounting options for monitors and hardware (i.e. a slatwall array that can hold monitors in double stacks, portrait configurations, and more.)
• Comprehensive cable management and cable channels to keep cords and wires organized and safe from accidental disconnection
• A sturdy base frame for technology and equipment
• Accessible storage space, including tech cabinets with fans and vented panels to keep equipment cool

Each global security console you purchase should come with a full lifetime warranty. If a console company is not willing to stand behind their product, that may mean it is not sufficiently durable to last for the next decade. Remember, spending a little more on a high-quality product will pay large dividends in the future by avoiding costly downtime.

If the warranty includes a lot of fine print, be wary; that fine print may hide significant warranty coverage limitations. It’s a good idea to look for a console supplier that offers an easier-to-understand product guarantee including parts and repairs.

Plan for Usability: Take Ergonomics and Storage Space Into Account

Your global security consoles should be designed to maximize operator health and comfort. While not every operator will immediately notice strain or discomfort from poorly designed and set up console furniture, your organization will experience a rise in repetitive injuries and back pain over time when the wrong products are in place.

Since every employee has different proportions, there is no single console height or monitor tilt that will work perfectly for every employee. Well-designed GSOC furniture will have plenty of adjustability options to adapt to different operators. That goes for both console furniture and chairs, which should have flexible seat heights, armrests, lumbar support, and other ergonomic adjustability options.

Global security operator stations often include six or more monitors, so the ideal ergonomic console setup may be slightly different from that of a standard office. Here are a few adapted ergonomic guidelines we recommend to mission-critical agencies:

• The console surface should have an adjustable height with a range accommodating the 5th percentile female sitting to the 95th percentile male standing, roughly 22.6” to 48.7”.
• There should be a single control for adjusting the console height, and it should not require altering the monitor position relative to the input devices.
• The worksurface shape and size must allow comfortable reach to all console controls and work tools.
• The monitor focal depth should be adjustable and determined by user preference, with a recommended range of between 15.7” and 29.5” from the operator’s eyes.
• Vertical monitor viewing angles should be adjustable to meet the recommended secondary viewing angle of +5° to -50°.
• There should be adjustment options for the horizontal monitor viewing angle to allow the operator to see the monitor within 40° from straight ahead).
• There should be adjustable perpendicular monitor viewing/monitor tilt. The top of the monitor should not be closer to the eyes than the bottom of the monitor.

Your GSOC should also include storage space for any important equipment that operators must keep nearby. There are several storage solutions specifically designed for mission-critical operations centers, such as Russ Bassett’s high-density Gemtrac and Promedia media storage cabinets.

Plan for Success: Work With an Experienced Provider

Your global security console provider will help you transform your workspace into a smart, efficient environment that will support mission-critical operations. Many console sellers provide assistance space planning, setup, and choosing accessories to improve the functionality of your operations center.

To make the most of these opportunities, purchase your global security consoles from an experienced provider with plenty of experience working with organizations like yours. Choosing a well-reputed provider also allows you to ensure the provider’s products tend to last and deliver the durability they claim.

At Russ Bassett, we work closely with public safety, transportation, air traffic control, airport operations, utilities, process control, and other global security organizations. We strive to understand each client’s unique requirements by engaging in friendly collaboration, listening and sharing ideas each step of the way. With our drive, integrity, attention to detail, and excellent service, we aim to exceed your expectations. Explore our product; selection today!