In this report, authors outline a framework and methods for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to conduct a colocation analysis. The authors then briefly describe the need for a colocation assessment methodology, describe the assessment framework and methods for each step of the assessment, note limitations of the framework, and provide high-level conclusions based on applications of the framework as part of several related reports.

Evaluating Department of Homeland Security Component Colocation for Field Efficiency and Performance

Framework and Methods

Jeremy M. Eckhause, Katharina Ley Best, David Metz, Mel Eisman

ResearchPublished Sep 12, 2023

In this report, authors outline a framework and methods created for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct colocation analyses using an analytical, repeatable model and set of frameworks.

The method for colocation evaluation developed in this set of studies consists of five steps: (1) identifying colocation opportunities, meaning individual sites that could be considered for colocation, typically within a metropolitan area; (2) prioritizing colocation candidate pairs, where pairs consist of a possible mover and a possible receiver location; (3) applying the colocation analysis tool, which allows for rank-ordering candidate pairs using available DHS administrative and asset data; (4) generating colocation scenarios, where scenarios include a set of current sites and a future location plan; and (5) analyzing colocation scenarios by assessing costs and performance implications through three major subcomponents (sharing analysis about colocation [i.e., what is shared and to what degree], cost modeling analysis providing rough order-of-magnitude cost savings [or increases] under colocation, and performance assessment under colocation).

Key Takeaways

A repeatable, data-driven framework can help with the evaluation of colocation opportunities

  • The approach developed by Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center researchers uses available DHS data, making a large part of the process of identification and selection of possible opportunities automated, repeatable, and traceable. The tools used to automate this process lend themselves to relatively straightforward modification for other colocation analyses.
  • Based on these data, the approach is able to capture different or changing utility functions in terms of what kinds of colocations are preferred by DHS. The analytical hierarchy process can be easily reapplied to reflect changes in the importance of different colocation characteristics or to support excursions that show the effects of making different assumptions.
  • The cost and performance models provide a structured way and, in the case of the cost model, a user-friendly tool for performing initial assessments of colocation scenarios. With iterative development, these assessment tools can continue to be improved and refined, leading to a more-robust assessment of future colocation options rather than starting anew with each needed assessment.

Recommendations

  • We recommend that the Chief Readiness Support Officer continue to use DHS data combined with analytical, transparent, user-friendly tools to assess colocation for improved component buy-in and collaboration.
  • We recommend continued iterative development and refinement of the colocation assessment framework and underlying tools.

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    Eckhause, Jeremy M., Katharina Ley Best, David Metz, and Mel Eisman, Evaluating Department of Homeland Security Component Colocation for Field Efficiency and Performance: Framework and Methods. Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center operated by the RAND Corporation, 2023. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1639-1.html.
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    This research was sponsored by the DHS Office of the Chief Readiness Support Officer and conducted by the Infrastructure, Immigration, and Security Operations Program within the Homeland Security Operational Analysis Center.

    This publication is part of the RAND research report series. Research reports present research findings and objective analysis that address the challenges facing the public and private sectors. All RAND research reports undergo rigorous peer review to ensure high standards for research quality and objectivity.

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