Developing Tests, Evaluations, Standards and Systems Engineering
When members of the Homeland Security Enterprise acquire a new type of equipment or resources, they need to know it will meet their usability and safety needs. The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) assists operators by helping them define and understand their requirements and the technology's performance capabilities. This ensures they select the right tool for the job. We provide capability development and support throughout the development and acquisition process.
Our work in standards, test and evaluation, systems engineering and operational analysis has made us a trusted resource for operators across DHS and the Homeland Security Enterprise. S&T works with government labs, like the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and other academic partners to conduct thorough testing and evaluation and ensure performance standards are consistently applied. S&T also provides technology testing and evaluation to better understand and mitigate homeland security threats, especially for the first responder community. S&T’s laboratory staff and partners provide a critical scientific interface with first responders and end-users in the field for accelerated delivery and deployment of technologies and systems across the country. This information is vital when determining which equipment is worth the investment, since many items can have similar descriptions but varying costs. S&T’s expertise and trusted evaluation provides a firm foundation for good acquisition decisions by helping operators understand which resources are most effective for their needs.
Current Programs and Projects
- AMOC Value-Focused Model
- Behavioral, Economic, and Social Science Engine
- Better Screening Performance Through Technology: Verifying and Validating a Task Process Factor Tool
- Biometric Technology Engine
- Broadband Demonstration Network—Developing Tools to Measure and Assess In-Building Coverage
- Burn Saver Thermal Sensor
- Can Your Response Robot Really Do That?
- Chemical Detection Standards Program
- ChemTag – Personal Chemical Warning Device
- Critical Incident Management Technology Assessment (CIMTA) Hosted by the National Urban Security Technology Laboratory
- Data Analytics Engine
- Eye-Dentify - Emphasizing Training Improves Operational Security at the Border
- Fast Response Cutter Test and Evaluation Oversight
- Field Detection and Analysis for Fire Gases and Particulates: Metal Organic Frameworks
- Firefighter Incident Commander Training Simulator
- Improving Communications for Fishing Vessel Inspections -- Technology Demonstration uses Mobile Maritime Commercial Communications to Save Operators Time and Effort
- Modeling and Simulation Engine
- MQ-9 Unmanned Aircraft System Capability Analysis
- Multifunctional Textiles for Advanced Personal Protective Equipment
- Next Generation First Responder (NGFR)
- Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) Communication Hub
- Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) Integration Demo
- Next Generation First Responder (NGFR) Internet of Things (IoT)
- Next Generation Incident Command System (NICS)
- Office of Standards – Standards for the Performance of Radiation and Nuclear Detection Equipment
- Office of Test and Evaluation: Test & Evaluation is the Key to Successful Acquisition Outcomes
- Operations and Requirements Analysis Overview
- Project 25 Compliance Assessment Program (P25 CAP)
- Radiological/Nuclear Response and Recovery Research & Development
- Rapid DNA
- RDD Planning Guidance
- Response Robot Testing Standards Program
- Rio Grande Valley Systems Analysis
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Facemasks (SCBA)
- Setting Standards for Drones in the First Responder Community
- Standards for Drinking Water Resilience: Infrastructure Resilience Assessment Project
- S&T Standards Improving the Level of Preparedness and Resilience in the Private Sector Against All-Hazards
- S&T Standards Protecting the Nation Against White Powder Attacks
- Student and Exchange Visitor Information System Modernization Program Life Cycle Cost Estimate Update
- System Assessment and Validation for Emergency Responders (SAVER)
- System of Systems Operational Analytics (SOSOA)
- System of Systems Operational Analysis: Strengthening Analytics for Quality Decision Making
- TCPED Process Analysis
- Trace Explosives Detection Systems Standards
- Training and Performance Optimization
- Turbo FRMAC Expansion
- Video Quality in Public Safety (VQiPS)
Additional Resources
The following resources will provide more information about some of our projects.
Videos
Visit the S&T Videos page for project specific videos.
News
- Snapshot: TSL Inventor Helps keep Detection Systems in Check
- News Release: DHS to Engage Innovative Small Businesses on National Road Tour
- Snapshot: Speech Analytics Evaluation for OpenSAT19
- Snapshot: S&T's Blockchain Program Focuses on Security, Privacy, Interoperability & Standards
- News Release: Global City Teams Challenge Expo Convenes July 10-12 in D.C.
- Snapshot: S&T Robot Test Standards Adopted in Japan’s Fukushima Decades-long Cleanup Efforts
- Snapshot: S&T Conducts T&E of USCG's National Security Cutter
Questions? Email us at stcds@hq.dhs.gov.