Citywide Router Upgrade

The Situation

The City launched a major initiative to upgrade in-vehicle routers across multiple departments. These routers support critical field operations, and the goal was to enhance performance, increase network reliability, and ensure consistent access to essential systems. The effort involved a large volume of vehicles, each requiring a coordinated and technically sound update.

How LRA Stepped In

An LRA project management consultant was brought in to lead the planning and execution of the upgrade. To reduce risk and confirm the process, the consultant initiated a pilot with two vehicles from separate departments. The pilot ran for two weeks with no reported issues, giving the green light for a full-scale rollout.

The consultant worked closely with the client’s internal teams to develop a phased migration plan. The first phase included scheduling vehicles for on-site updates, configuring new hardware settings, and aligning each device within the existing infrastructure and reporting systems.

The Breakthrough

The LRA consultant streamlined the process by organizing updates into manageable phases based on department size and technical needs. Each visit included replacing the communication module, updating router configurations, adjusting internal naming conventions, and verifying connectivity before deployment.

For vehicles with more advanced technical requirements, the consultant coordinated the installation of additional hardware components without disrupting operational readiness. This proactive planning helped avoid delays and reduced the time each vehicle was out of service.

The Outcome

The router upgrades were completed successfully, with minimal downtime and full restoration of services. Vehicles experienced improved connectivity, allowing field staff to perform their duties more efficiently. Technical issues were resolved in real-time, and all updates were documented for future reference.

What It Means

With strong project leadership and detailed coordination, LRA helped the City modernize its vehicle communication systems. This project demonstrated how thoughtful execution and strategic phasing can improve service delivery and strengthen operational performance across departments.