California's 911 Upgrade: A Costly Lesson in Tech Failure

A Costly Setback

California's ambitious plan to modernize its 911 emergency system has hit a significant snag. In 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom promised to upgrade the state's outdated 911 system, replacing the old analog technology with a new digital network. The goal was to make emergency communications more reliable and efficient.

The Current Situation

Fast forward to 2025, and the state has spent $450 million on this project. However, the plan has now been scrapped. The new system failed to meet expectations during tests in a few dispatch centers, leading officials to decide to start over.

Looking Ahead

The state is now considering a new design, one that is similar to systems used by other states. But this means more money will be spent—hundreds of millions of dollars more, to be exact.

A History of Struggles

This isn't the first time California has struggled with big tech projects. The state has a history of expensive failures. One notable example is the Financial Information System for California (FI$Cal), launched in 2005. It was supposed to manage state finances but ended up way over budget and behind schedule.

The Common Issue

The common issue seems to be the desire to create something new. Instead of using proven systems, California often tries to reinvent the wheel. This approach has led to costly mistakes.

The 911 Debacle

The 911 debacle is a prime example. It shows the risks of not learning from others' successes. Californians are still stuck with an outdated system, putting lives and property at risk.

A Call to Action

The state needs to rethink its approach to tech projects. It's time to focus on what works, rather than chasing unproven ideas.