FENZ: Transforming Frontline Response
- X4 Consulting
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
X4 Consulting assisted with the development of the tablets Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) utilizes as part of their response efforts.
The Challenge
To maintain positive community risk reduction, operational readiness and effective incident responses, firefighters need fast easy access to relevant information and support. Fire crews and appliances need to be mobile, not only within their own local communities but in their greater response area. Having the right information, at the right time, in the right place is essential to ensuring firefighters can plan and execute quality incident responses in their communities.
Recognising the benefits of modern mobility solutions, FENZ developed an in-vehicle mobility solution that enables firefighters to quickly identify and manage hazards, plan effective incident responses, maintain situational awareness across all responding fire crews and emergency service partners.
How X4 Helped
As a FENZ strategic technology partner, X4 Consulting designed and built the Mobile Response Application’s technical backbone—combining a secure Microsoft Azure platform, real-time data sync, and seamless integration with enterprise systems. Robust middleware and APIs kept mobile, cloud, and on-premise systems in constant communication.
To ensure reliability in the field, X4 designed, developed and helped deploy dual-SIM Sierra Wireless XR90 routers, rugged Panasonic Toughbooks in custom vibration-resistant mounts, and modular apps like Operations Site Data and BA Equipment Check Forms—optimised for low-bandwidth conditions and rapid updates.
The Outcome
Since its rollout, the Mobile Response Application has delivered significant operational benefits:
Metric Value
Incidents attended using Mobility 542,000+
Building records updated 27,000+
BA equipment checks completed 874,000+
Status messages sent to ComCen 118,000+
Hours saved updating building data 1,300 - 2,200
Crews now access 100% of incident address data in near real-time—compared to less than 1% with legacy paper systems. Radio traffic has dropped by 40–50%, and frontline teams report improved situational awareness and decision-making.
Looking Ahead
The Mobile Response Application has been approved to be installed in more Fire Appliances which will being status messaging, critical alerts, and new mobile capabilities to more frontline fire crews.
