Regardless of the size or type of event, dispatching software, together with CAD in law enforcement and EMS dispatch systems, are vital parts of incident management. Modern mobile technologies combine these features to allow easy access to units in the field. Local law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services (EMS) providers benefit from mobile technology whether on a traffic stop, vehicle crash, structure fire, or medical call. The ability to communicate and access data from the field saves lives.
Critical incidents such as active shooter scenes have challenged the resources of municipal, county, and state first responders. The call of an officer down instantly changes the dynamic of a jurisdiction’s manpower. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornados, wildfires, and floods, put public safety professionals at all levels to the test. Through it all, the ability to effectively communicate and exchange information is invaluable to damage control and recovery efforts.
Mobile Technology’s Interoperability Links Systems, Agencies, and Personnel
Fully integrated records management systems with internet-based platforms allow information to flow regardless of the user’s location. First responders with a mobile device, whether a cell phone, tablet, or laptop, can relay and receive important data anywhere. The interoperability of mobile technology expands connectivity to include communication with internal systems such as CAD software and records management. These functions also expand to data and information sharing with external partner organizations such as local and state health departments, driver’s license and license plate issuing agencies, and correctional facilities. This access is controlled by the host agency and permissions can be for specific functions and for a designated time frame.
For instance, a major entertainment event may be taking place in a particular jurisdiction. A police department, using mobile technology, can grant limited, temporary access to parts of its records management system to partner organizations. EMS, private security, emergency management centers, and others, can enhance communication, provide timely data, and manage personnel from a shared system.
Cloud-Based Solutions Allows CAD and Records Management Access from Anywhere
An organization’s data is kept secure and readily accessible through the use of CAD cloud-based applications. Essentially, the components of an agency’s records management system, including computer-aided dispatch and mobile Police RMS software, are compartmentalized and function without many of the traditional on-site hardware requirements. State of the art, constantly updating, and flexible, cloud-native apps virtually eliminate unscheduled downtime by expanding and reducing its cloud usage during spikes or lulls of information exchange and data management.
The ability to utilize an agency’s records management system and CAD software from anywhere means being away from the normal workspace does not reduce productivity. Imagine a police chief at a conference across the country when an active shooter incident occurs. From his or her smartphone, they can not only get up to the minute details of what is happening, but actually run an appropriate level of incident command based on their geographical location and improve law enforcement data.
Next, consider the homicide detective following up on a lead out of state. No more having to call into the office, find someone to research the records system, and hope they are able to find the needed information. Now, through Wi-Fi or cellular technology, the investigator can use a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and get the important information needed in the case.
Oftentimes during natural disasters, it is best to have some agency staff members evacuate the area. During a hurricane, for instance, members of human resources, finance, or purchasing may not be able to report to the office for work. Using cloud-based mobile technology, many of their duties can be completed remotely, allowing an organization to maintain operational integrity. While being on scene might be difficult, 10-8 Systems mobile dispatch software solutions and records management systems make data management effective and efficient from anywhere.
Computer-Aided Dispatch Software and Mobile Technology Expand User Features
Whether an agency is just starting to use mobile technology or updating a legacy program, 10-8 Systems can provide the most popular and productive features for modern public safety. Intuitive functionality results in an enhanced user experience. That experience translates into a desire to learn more about the system and use it to one’s advantage. With the ease of use comes less time required for training and more time spent on the operator’s job function.
Law enforcement officers and other public safety professionals will appreciate the silent dispatching feature. Receiving information about calls for service through mobile technologies keeps the two-way radio free for emergency use. An added bonus of silent dispatching in jurisdictions without encrypted radio frequencies is the ability to keep law enforcement sensitive information from being broadcast in a manner which can be heard through a scanner.
The automatic vehicle location (AVL) feature, displays unit locations through police mobile tracker software. Additionally, the AVL can display the status of a unit to indicate their availability. Dispatchers and supervisors can instantly identify where units are located and determine response assignments, perimeter posts, back-up needs, and other vital information. AVL Software can also assist dispatchers in leading first responders into remote areas when searching for a subject who has become lost but is able to communicate with 911 dispatchers.
First line supervisors will appreciate the ability to use mobile technology in a way that keeps them in the field rather than behind a desk. A patrol sergeant, for example, can utilize CAD systems for law enforcement and records management systems to assign tasks and review work submitted by officers. He or she can approve reports or send them back to the officer for revision. They can post schedules and zone assignments that can be accessed by everyone on the squad and can include specific notes, such as requests for increased patrols at a particular location. All of this and more, can be done using mobile technology, keeping the sergeant where he or she wants to be anyway, on the streets, with their team, protecting the public.
