Public Participation in Identity Verification Biometrics Study
Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in an experiment to test biometric technologies in an airport setting for the DHS AEER program . Here's how it went.
DetailsDoes Privatizing Airport Security Make Sense from a Customer Service Perspective?
TSA says there is no statistical difference in customer service between federal airport screeners and private contractors. Confirming or rejecting this statement takes data. So all we need to do is compare TSA data with contractor data, right? It's...
DetailsJustice Dept. Redacting the Truth…and Common Sense
One wonders whether the Justice Department possesses any common sense given its decision to redact portions of the Orlando nightclub shooter's 9-1-1 calls. Public trust in government is at all-time lows, and the ability to embrace common sense and...
DetailsAfter Orlando, Training Needed for Active Shooter Situations
It’s happened again. Another senseless killing spree, another act of terror. Law enforcement professionals and others are seeking ways to stop this trend, but that leaves the rest of us looking for ways to help. Here is one way:...
DetailsNew Study on Identity Verification Using Biometrics
DHS is funding a new study to understand how biometrics can be used to assist individuals who need to verify their identify at border crossings, airports, and in other U.S. transportation systems. I will be one of their test...
DetailsDC Metro Resilience – The Issue We Need to Talk about
Most organizations can perform well when conditions are at their best, but it’s those truly epic “bad days” when dependability and performance are most important. Given how poorly the Washington, DC, Metro system has been performing on its “good...
DetailsEmergency Exercises Are Essential Part of 2016 Transition Process
In a matter of months, the United States will have a new president. Leadership transitions are awkward affairs, but one of the most important parts of a successful process is understanding how to handle major emergencies on Day One....
DetailsFor TSA and VA, Time is a Valid Performance Measure
Given all of the recent controversies related to operational problems at TSA and the Department of Veterans Affairs, there has been a lot of talk about something that is of intrinsic value and practically unquantifiable—time. Unfortunately, timeliness does not...
DetailsTSA Checkpoint Wait Times Impact More than Aviation Security
The long lines at airport security checkpoints across the country are not just frustrating travelers but encouraging people to use statistically more dangerous modes of transportation, which has cascading social and economic costs. Improving wait times is not just...
DetailsTSA Blame Game Runs Wild But Effective Solutions Are Scarce
The announcement that TSA replaced former Assistant Administrator for Security Operations Kelly Hoggan got a lot of national attention. It might lead one to conclude that the recent “blame and shame” efforts of some members of Congress threatening TSA...
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