DS 13 Caught on Camera
Problem Statement
In response to security threats both domestic and international, the US Department of State employs video surveillance systems to actively monitor the grounds of its facilities. For many years, the department has used analog systems, which rely on direct cable connections to transmit video. While analog continues to be utilized in some embassies, the format no longer supports the security goals outlined by the department’s groups in DC. To bring embassy and consulate security in line with modern standards, the Department of State has begun upgrading these analog systems to modern digital camera systems which support higher video quality and greater viewing ranges. Because of struggles with efficiency of these upgrades, the Department of State tasked our group with creating “a policy that accounts for the capabilities of newly purchased high-definition digital camera equipment…” with the end goal of increasing efficiency between Department personnel including Marines, Regional Security Officers, and other individuals tasked with security operations. One of the harder aspects of this problem is the challenge of not only coming up with a policy that accounts for new equipment but one that also keeps up with modern standards. This includes updating software, maintaining compatibility between systems, and learning new sets of skills to operate newer equipment.
Solution
In response to the problem at hand, our team developed an in-depth review that thoroughly describes the various hindrances and challenges that State Department and Marine Security personnel face when modernizing their security camera infrastructure. In addition, we provided a list of recommendations that address the different challenges and provide a plethora of opportunities for the Department of State to act on. We chose to structure this product as a recommendation, rather than a policy document, in the hopes that the medium’s flexibility will allow for easier adoption. Our recommendations come from a fresh viewpoint that exposes potential issues that have been overlooked or downplayed in the camera upgrade process. Our MVP focuses on several areas where we find potential for meaningful change, as well as prospective solutions to these problem areas.
Meet the Team
Henry Donovan
Henry Donovan is a senior Economics and Political Science Student with a minor in honors interdisciplinary studies. During his time at JMU, Henry has developed a passion for quantitative analytics and economic efficiency and has enjoyed applying these skills to Hacking for Diplomacy. Outside of his academic pursuits, Henry is a member of several clubs at JMU, including Madison Economics Club, Real Estate Club, and Club Climbing. In his free time, he also enjoys cooking and playing bass with several bands in Harrisonburg. After graduation, Henry is moving to the Washington, DC metro area to work as an analyst for Deloitte’s Government and Public Services practice.
J.P. Green
J.P. Green is an International Affairs major with minors in Computer Science and Russian Studies, as well as a concentration in International Conflict and Security. Throughout his time at James Madison University, JP has engaged in multiple school–sponsored events such as representing JMU in the Model Europe United Nations challenge. Professionally, JP has completed several internships through the Department of State and Homeland Security. As a Department of State dependent, JP has lived and traveled abroad extensively, and as a result loves learning new cultures and languages. In his spare time, JP has participated in Club Rugby, Chess club, and even plays lead guitar in a band. After graduating, he plans to follow his dreams of serving in the United States government.
Elvis Masinovic
Elvis Masinovic is a Computer Science major with a concentration in Cyber Security and a completed Mathematics minor. Elvis originally transferred to JMU from Piedmont Virginia Community College after completing his Engineering Associates degree. During his time at James Madison University, Elvis became an Officer of the Cyber Defense Club and currently works part-time at JetBlue as part of their Cyber Security Team. He plans on working in the Cybersecurity space and to be a point of contact/information for those in the Cyber Defense Club with the dream of helping the next generation of cybersecurity defense professionals.
Emma Niland
Emma is a senior at James Madison University studying political science and Spanish. She is the founding president of the Alexander Hamilton Society chapter at JMU and was selected to be a 2023 Ronald Reagan National Defense Fellow. This year, she has extensively studied U.S. military and foreign policy through her internships with U.S. Senator Joni Ernst as well as the Center of Political-Military Analysis under Dr. Richard Weitz of the Hudson Institute. Her post-graduation aspirations include a career in civil and foreign service and to attend the University of Salamanca’s Master’s in Global and International Studies as a Fulbright scholar to continue her research, which focused on transatlantic security.