NCJ Number
177770
Date Published
May 1998
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The Modesto, California, Police Department has experienced tremendous change resulting from technology over the past several years and has recognized the need to plan for the future and assess the impact of technology.
Abstract
To this end, a nominal group technique panel was convened to identify and analyze trends and events that could potentially impact the police department's computerized information systems. Trends of interest were illegal access to and use of computers, purchase of too much technology, demands for access to computers and information, security systems, increased staff workloads, mandated training, changes in hiring standards, computer crime, connectivity and compatibility issues, and learning curve factors in technology advances. Events of interest included data input method changes, revenue reductions, natural disasters, major technological developments, legislation, training, security breaches, changes in department or city management, and changes in purchasing policies and procedures. Recommendations resulting from the panel's analysis are offered to maximize the effectiveness of technology acquisitions and to plan for and transition to new technology applications in an orderly way. 7 endnotes