NCJ Number
218821
Date Published
July 2000
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the work of the FBI Laboratory in sponsoring Scientific Working Groups (SWGs) for the purpose of improving forensic discipline practices and building consensus among forensic partners at every jurisdictional level, with attention to provisions of the SWG Bylaws.
Abstract
Beginning in the early 1990s the FBI Laboratory has sponsored the development of eight SWGs. Each SWG is working on protocols for one of the following forensic fields: DNA analysis, digital evidence, questioned documents, latent fingerprints, firearms and toolmarks, illicit business records, imaging technologies, and materials. In early 1998, the FBI Laboratory conducted a strategic review of all SWGs. This review determined the need for administrative and Web-based support for the entire SWG effort. The FBI Laboratory has collaborated with the National Forensic Science Technology Center (NFSTC) in this effort. The NFSTC has assisted in developing and implementing optimal business processes that will establish and maintain consistency in SWG organization, life cycle, and business processes. It has also established mechanisms that ensure laboratory management's commitment and support for personnel involved in and contributing to the SWGs. In addition, the NFSTC has established an infrastructure for effective communication within and among SWGs and the national and international forensic communities. Operational bylaws have been established for all FBI-sponsored SWGs. Bylaws provisions pertain to the SWG name and objectives, membership, officers and duties, meetings, subcommittee working groups, the process for approval of guidelines or recommendations, and bylaws amendments.