Where Do I Start? A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your First Control Room

If you’ve been tasked with building or upgrading a control room — whether for a 911 dispatch center, utility operations, or air traffic control — you might be asking yourself:Where do I even begin?

You’re not alone. Many supervisors and operations managers know what they need their teams to do, but not how to translate that into a physical space that supports performance, safety, and long-term resilience.

At Sustema, we’ve helped hundreds of organizations design control rooms from the ground up. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to get started — with clarity, confidence, and the right questions in hand.

Step 1: Define the Mission of the Room

Before you think about furniture, screens, or lighting, start with the purpose.

• What kind of decisions are made in this room?

• Who uses it — and how many people per shift?

• Is it a 24/7 operation?

• What are the stakes if something goes wrong?

A 911 dispatch center has different needs than a power grid control room or a security operations center. Understanding the mission helps shape every design decision that follows.

Step 2: Assemble the Right Team

Control room design is not a solo project. You’ll want input from:

• Operators and supervisors who understand daily workflows

• IT and facilities teams who manage infrastructure

• Procurement or finance for budgeting and approvals

• Human factors or safety experts if available

Bringing these voices in early ensures the final design supports both people and technology — and avoids costly rework later.

Step 3: Assess Your Current Space (or Site)

If you’re renovating an existing room, start with a walkthrough:

• What’s working — and what’s not?

• Are there issues with lighting, noise, or temperature?

• Is the furniture adjustable and ergonomic?

• Are cables exposed or difficult to access?

• Is there enough room for future growth?

If you’re building new, consider the room’s location, dimensions, and proximity to power, HVAC, and network infrastructure.

Step 4: Define Your Technology Requirements

Your control room furniture must support the tools your team uses every day — and the ones you plan to adopt in the future.

• How many monitors per operator?

• Are you using touchscreens, radios, or specialized input devices?

• Do you need shared displays or video walls?

• What are your power and data needs?

• Will you be integrating AI, IoT, or cloud-based systems?

This is where future-proofing matters. Modular furniture, integrated cable management, and lockable CPU enclosures can save you from expensive upgrades down the line.

Step 5: Prioritize Ergonomics and Operator Wellness

In 24/7 environments, operator fatigue is a real threat to performance and safety. Your furniture should support:

• Sit-stand flexibility to reduce strain and improve circulation

• Adjustable monitor arms for optimal sightlines

• Task lighting to reduce eye strain

• Acoustic control to minimize distractions

• Personalized comfort for different body types and shift need

• Climate control zones for personalized comfort

These features are not just about comfort — they directly impact alertness, decision-making, and long-term health. In 911 centers, where operators may work 10- to 12-hour shifts, these details matter.

Step 6: Choose a Trusted Design Partner Who Understands Mission-Critical Environments

This is where we come in.

At Sustema, we specialize in designing ergonomic, technology-integrated control room furniture for mission-critical environments. We work with you from concept to installation, offering:

• Site assessments and layout planning

• Custom console design and 3D renderings

• Certified, durable materials and finishes

• Seamless integration with your IT and AV systems

• Ongoing support and reconfiguration services

Step 7: Plan for the Long Term

A control room is a long-term investment. Make sure your design allows for:

• Scalability as your team or technology grows

• Easy maintenance with front-access panels and tool-free servicing

• Compliance with UL, CSA, CE, and other relevant standards

• Operator retention by creating a space people want to work in

Think beyond the first install. Ask your vendor how easy it is to reconfigure, upgrade, or expand your setup in the future.

Start with Confidence, Build with Purpose

Designing a control room may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it becomes a strategic opportunity. By focusing on mission, people, and technology from the start, you can create a space that performs under pressure — and supports your team for years to come.

📩 If you’re planning your first control room and want expert guidance, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a virtual walkthrough of our latest ergonomic control room solutions.