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ABOUT THE CLIENT When a county-level public safety agency decides to build a new  dispatcher control room, the goal is never just “new furniture.” The mission is continuity: clear decisions under pressure, reliable technology, and a workspace that supports 12-hour shifts without sacrificing performance. In this project, the agency’s leadership and dispatch team set a straightforward mandate—create a room that helps operators stay locked in, reduces the physical wear-and-tear that accumulates across long shifts, and gives IT a clean, serviceable infrastructure they can maintain without disrupting operations. From the outset, the agency’s planning team also understood a key truth about modern emergency communications: the console is no longer a desk. It is a technology platform —power, data, devices, visibility, alerting, and ergonomics all converge at the operator position. That reality shaped every decision that followed, and it’s exactly where Sustema excels: purpose-built control room environments engineered for high uptime and high human performance.   ABOUT THE PROJECT The scope was clear and ambitious: design and furnish a brand-new dispatcher control room anchored by ten Sustema Cockpit Consoles , configured to support multi-screen operations and the technology density that comes with mission-critical communications. This was not a “drop furniture into a room” engagement. The room required a coordinated approach—console layout, technology integration, cable routing, operator adjustability, and future maintenance considerations all had to work together as one system. Sustema’s role was to deliver operator positions that make it easy to maintain focus, keep equipment secure and ventilated, and simplify service access for IT—without creating visual clutter or physical pinch points that compromise day-to-day work. Because dispatcher environments evolve (new radios, new CAD interfaces, new display requirements), the agency also needed a platform that could adapt over time. That meant specifying consoles and infrastructure with integrated pathways for both power and data, and service-friendly access points so upgrades don’t become downtime events.   ABOUT THE SOLUTION Sustema delivered a cohesive operator platform built around the Cockpit Console —a workstation engineered specifically for control room performance, not general office use. Ergonomics engineered into the workstation (not added later) Each console incorporates motorized lifting columns  controlled by an integrated keypad , enabling sit/stand height adjustment to fit different operators and different tasks across a shift. This is not a convenience feature—it’s the backbone of an ergonomic strategy that helps dispatchers maintain neutral posture, vary working positions, and reduce fatigue that can affect both comfort and attentional stamina. Sustema also designed the operator surface with durable construction details— HPL worksurfaces  with urethane edging  to stand up to constant use while maintaining a comfortable contact edge. Integrated levelers  provide up to 1 inch of adjustment , ensuring stability and proper alignment across the full console run. Display positioning that supports speed and accuracy In a multi-screen environment, where seconds matter, monitor placement is a performance variable. The Cockpit Console supports articulated monitor arm mounting and includes a focal adjustment system  that allows monitors to glide forward and backward easily—helping each dispatcher set optimal viewing distance and angle without improvised fixes. Cable management designed for uptime Control rooms fail when service becomes difficult. Sustema’s approach is to design serviceability into the furniture itself. Each console uses surface frames  that route cables into cable chains , securing movement and intentionally separating power and data to keep pathways organized and reduce risk during adjustments or troubleshooting. In addition, the supporting wall infrastructure includes internal cable channels —with defined routing for data and power—and finishing panels that are easily removable without tools , so IT can access pathways quickly without dismantling the workspace. That “no-tools access” is a practical advantage: it shortens service windows, reduces disruption, and makes cleanliness and re-cabling achievable rather than avoided. Secure, ventilated technology storage—built in Each console includes CPU storage designed for the realities of 24/7 operation: hinged, ventilated, lockable front and back doors , two sliding CPU shelves  on ball-bearing slides, and even lighting in the CPU storage  to support visibility during maintenance. This detail matters: it protects equipment, supports cooling, and helps technicians work faster and safer when access is required. Smart integrations that support operator performance A dispatcher position is an environment, not just a surface. The consoles incorporate elements that elevate situational awareness and comfort: an under-surface LED strip , integrated anti-collision system  underneath the surface, and accessory options such as status lights  with multiple colors for at-a-glance signaling. The system also supports integrated power delivery, including power bars  and a desktop monument designed to consolidate power and connectivity at the operator position. Collectively, these features create what the best control rooms aim for: fewer distractions, fewer workarounds, and a workstation that behaves like infrastructure—stable, predictable, and ready for the next shift.   ABOUT THE RESULTS Dispatchers can stay focused—because the workstation removes friction In high-consequence environments, focus is protected when the workspace is intuitive. With height adjustability, stable surfaces, and monitor positioning that can be tuned in seconds, dispatchers spend less time “fighting the desk” and more time maintaining situational awareness. The result is a room that supports consistent performance across long shifts, across different operator body types, and across changing task loads. Ergonomics that actively reduce injury risk and fatigue The new console platform directly supports healthier posture and movement. Sit/stand capability via lifting columns and keypad control encourages variation during the day, reducing the sustained static positions that contribute to discomfort and repetitive strain. Durable edges and properly engineered support components also help prevent the “small” daily irritations that accumulate into real ergonomic issues over months and years. IT can service and evolve the room without increasing downtime From an operations standpoint, one outcome stands above the rest: maintainability. The combination of organized routing (surface frames to cable chains), separation of power and data, tool-free access panels, and defined pathways inside the wall infrastructure means technicians can diagnose, replace, and upgrade systems with significantly less disruption. CPU storage lighting, sliding shelves, and lockable ventilated enclosures further reduce service time while protecting critical equipment. A future-ready platform, delivered the Sustema way Ultimately, this new dispatcher control room is more than a set of eight consoles—it’s a purpose-built environment that aligns people, process, and technology. By delivering ergonomics, cable discipline, and smart integration as one coordinated solution, Sustema helped create a room where dispatchers can operate at their best—and IT can keep systems performing at their highest level—shift after shift. Ready to plan your next control room upgrade? Whether you’re building a new dispatch center or modernizing an existing room, Sustema makes it easy to define requirements, align stakeholders, and move from concept to installation with confidence. Start by completing our Console Survey —a short, structured questionnaire that captures your operational goals, technology footprint, monitor counts, room constraints, and ergonomic priorities so our team can recommend the right console configuration from day one. Once we receive your survey, we’ll schedule a working session to translate your inputs into a tailored layout and integration plan—so you can begin the process quickly, reduce surprises, and build a room that performs as hard as your team does.

Installation no. 27647 About the client, a mining and materials group The client is a mining and materials group with a legacy spanning more than a few decades. This organization operates at a large industrial scale and manages multiple extraction, processing, and transformation facilities. With thousands of employees the company is recognized for its technical rigor, operational discipline, and long-term infrastructure mindset. To keep empowering their operators they decided to build a state-of-the-art mining operations center using our specialized furniture. About the project, modernizing a legacy mining operations The client set out to modernize one of their legacy mining operations center with new equipment both outside and inside the control room. For this rehaul they required specialized furniture that could handle their 24/7 operations. The project was driven by a clear set of operational pain points common to high‑pressure control room environments: operator discomfort over long shifts, cluttered and vulnerable IT infrastructure, and cable chaos that made maintenance risky and time‑consuming. The client needed furniture that could adapt to every user , not force users to adapt to it—hence fully height‑adjustable worksurfaces  supporting everyone from the 5th percentile to the 95th, with seamless sit‑stand capability at the push of an electronic keypad. Comfort was non‑negotiable, leading to smooth, ergonomic edge profiles  that eliminate forearm pressure, while performance demanded robust, accessible CPU storage  integrated directly into the console. Browse through the different variants used in this project: Equally critical was bringing order to complexity: a dedicated wall structure and multi‑layered raceway system  separates power, data, and video from source to screen, protects cables even while in motion, and keeps everything organized, serviceable, and safe. Add to that tool‑less removable aesthetic panels , precision levellers , support for both standard and ultra‑wide monitors on articulated arms , ample worksurface space for peripherals, and thoughtfully placed grommets, power bars, and retractable outlets —and the result is furniture that doesn’t just hold technology, but removes friction from daily operations and lets operators focus on decisions that matter. About the solution, Why the Client Chose the FOCUS Control Room Console System To support a demanding, always‑on operations environment, the client selected our FOCUS EHAT control room console system —a platform purpose‑built for performance, adaptability, and long‑term reliability. FOCUS is designed around the operator, starting with electronically height‑adjustable worksurfaces  that accommodate everyone from the 5th percentile to the 95th percentile and enable seamless sit‑stand operation throughout long shifts. Comfort is engineered in, with smooth, pressure‑free edge detailing  and generous work surface depth to support peripherals, accessories, and articulated monitor arms—whether mounting standard 24‑inch displays or ultra‑wide 49‑inch curved monitors that move in sync with the adjustable surface. Beneath the surface, integrated CPU storage   keeps critical IT equipment protected yet easily accessible, while power bars, grommets, retractable outlet monuments, and dedicated raceways ensure clean, logical cable routing. What truly sets FOCUS apart is its end‑to‑end cable management architecture : a structural wall system connects consoles directly to video sources, separating power, data, and video into protected pathways, maintaining signal integrity, simplifying maintenance, and keeping everything organized—even while components are in motion. Finished with tool‑less removable panels , precision levellers, and robust cable protection, the FOCUS system delivers a console solution that looks calm on the surface while expertly managing complexity behind the scenes—exactly what a mission‑critical control room demands. About the result: Integrated Design for a Next‑Generation Control Room The FOCUS control room consoles were integrated into the space as a back‑to‑back configuration , with two smaller consoles positioned adjacent to a larger central console on each side, creating two parallel rows of three. All consoles are anchored to a shared structural wall system  that acts as both an architectural backbone and a technical lifeline—routing every power, data, and video cable away from the workstations, down into a service pole, and up through the ceiling infrastructure. The result is a room that feels calm and intentional on the surface, while quietly managing high levels of technical complexity behind the scenes. Positioned at the center of the room, the wall system also serves as a functional visual divider , reducing distractions between opposing operators without isolating teams. Operators maintain clear communication with colleagues seated beside them, while remaining shielded from unnecessary movement directly across from them—a critical balance in an environment that demands sustained focus over long shifts. Each console features height‑adjustable worksurfaces ranging from 26 to 51 inches , paired with a wall system rising to approximately 70 inches tall. While the consoles can align to form a continuous, seamless surface, real‑world use tells a more human story: operators personalize their stations, adjusting surface heights, monitor positions, and reach zones to match individual preferences and physical needs. Humanscale Mflex M2.1 monitor arms. This flexibility extends to the visual layer of the system. Monitors—mounted on heavy‑duty articulated arms by Humanscale —can be individually adjusted for height, tilt, and depth, moving in perfect synchronization with the height‑adjustable worksurfaces. Whether supporting standard displays or large curved monitors, each setup reflects the specific role that workstation plays in the broader mining operations workflow. Beneath and within the consoles, IT equipment is protected yet accessible, cable pathways remain organized and separated, and finishes can be removed without tools for rapid maintenance. Together, these elements create more than a control room—they create an operator‑centric environment  designed to protect both people and equipment. The FOCUS system enables long‑hour performance without fatigue, supports evolving technologies without disruption, and delivers a state‑of‑the‑art workspace where operators can stay comfortable, alert, and fully in control. In a space where decisions carry real consequences, the furniture doesn’t just support the operation—it empowers it. Take the Next Step with the FOCUS Control Room System Ready to see how FOCUS  can transform your control room? Download the FOCUS System brochure  to explore the full range of features, configurations, and technical details behind our operator‑centric control room consoles—designed for performance, comfort, and long‑term reliability in mission‑critical environments. If you’re planning a new control room or upgrading an existing one, our team is here to help. Contact us through our standard contact form  to start a conversation about your project and discover how FOCUS can be tailored to your operational needs.

In today’s fast-paced world, public safety agencies face increasing pressure to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies. At the heart of this mission-critical work are 911 dispatch centers, environments where every second counts and every decision can save lives. These centers rely on specialized workstations known as control room console , designed to support the unique demands of emergency communication. Unlike standard office furniture, dispatch consoles must integrate seamlessly with advanced technologies such as CAD systems, radio networks, and multi-screen setups, all while ensuring operator comfort during long shifts. Ergonomics , durability, and adaptability are not luxuries, they are necessities. A poorly designed console can lead to operator fatigue, slower response times, and even costly equipment failures. For agencies planning their first dispatch center or upgrading an existing one, understanding the critical role of console design is essential. The right solution doesn’t just organize hardware; it creates a workspace that enhances focus, reduces stress, and improves operational efficiency. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes a dispatch console truly effective, the latest trends in control room furniture, and how investing in the right design can transform your emergency response capabilities. How to setup a modern dispatch control room? Designing a PSAP is more than arranging desks and screens on top of a desk. It’s about creating an environment that supports mission-critical operations and operator well-being. Modern dispatch control rooms are specifically adapted to IT-intensive requirements, just like other types of consoles used in high-stakes environments such as air traffic control or network operations centers. Let’s start thinking about the overall layout. When planning the distribution and layout of your control room, two categories of factors will guide your decisions: Tangible Factors These are the physical elements that define the structure and functionality of the space: Layout : The positioning of consoles, screens, and equipment to ensure clear sightlines and efficient workflows. Workstations : Ergonomic consoles designed for 24/7 use, accommodating multiple monitors and integrated technology. Materials : Durable, high-quality finishes that withstand heavy use while maintaining a professional appearance. Accessories: Cable management systems, adjustable monitor arms, and storage solutions  that keep the workspace organized. Intangible Factors These are environmental aspects that influence operator comfort and performance: Ambient Lighting : Proper illumination reduces eye strain and enhances focus during long shifts. Temperature Control: Maintaining a stable, comfortable climate is essential for operator alertness. Noise Management : Acoustic treatments and sound-absorbing materials help minimize distractions in high-activity environments. Balancing these tangible and intangible factors is critical to creating a dispatch center. Needs of a 911 dispatch center: Unlike standard office furniture, dispatch consoles are engineered to meet the unique demands of emergency communication environments. These mission-critical workstations must deliver on four essential requirements: IT Equipment Support 911 dispatch centers rely on multiple monitors, communication devices, and specialized software. Consoles must provide:   Surface Design: Options like cockpit-shaped surfaces for immersive, multi-screen setups or linear configurations for streamlined workflows. Size Flexibility: Scaled to fit the purpose of each workstation and the available floor space. Strength & Durability: High-pressure laminate (HPL) surfaces that are anti-scratch, anti-stain, and anti-static, ensuring longevity under heavy use. Accessories: Integrated task lights, status indicators, keypads, cooling fans, and urethane edging for operator comfort and equipment protection.   24/7 Durability Dispatch centers never sleep, and neither can their furniture. Underneath the surface, consoles feature:   A strong substructure: We use a steel substructure, built from 12-gauge steel for unmatched stability. Cable Chains & CPU Enclosures: Sliding trays with lockable doors for secure equipment housing. Height Adjustment Actuators: Supporting up to 250 pounds, enabling sit-stand flexibility for operator wellness. Power Distribution Units: Organized and accessible for uninterrupted operations.   Cable Management A clutter-free environment is essential for efficiency and safety. Advanced systems include:   Grommet and Monument Solutions: For clean cable routing. Monitor Arms: Adjustable for ergonomic viewing and space optimization.   Ergonomic Design Operator comfort directly impacts performance. Features include: Adjustable Work Surfaces: Promoting healthy posture during long shifts. Integrated Storage Solutions: Cabinets, drawers, box-file combinations, and extra work surfaces to keep essentials within reach.   Every detail, from the surface finish to the steel framework must serve a purpose. Like to create a reliable, efficient, and operator-friendly workspace that supports life-saving decisions. Ready to Design a Dispatch Center That Works as Hard as You Do? Every second matters in emergency response, and your control room should reflect that. If you’re planning a new 911 dispatch center or upgrading an existing one, our design team is here to help. We specialize in creating mission-critical environments that combine durability, technology integration, and operator comfort. Talk to our experts today  and discover how the right console design can transform your operations.