techUK news and views
05 Sep 2024

Demystifying Digital Interoperability in Policing

techUK’s Interoperability in policing working group (IPWG) has launched a report calling for the need to unlock the potential of digital interoperability in policing.

In this context, digital interoperability refers to the ability of different IT systems and software used by police forces to work together seamlessly, enabling more efficient data sharing and communication.

 

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Demystifying Interoperability in Policing paper explores the importance of achieving interoperability across systems and seeks to help those interested in digital interoperability in policing by breaking down key concepts and technology approaches.

Police officers and staff express ongoing frustration over the lack of interoperability in digital policing systems. The inability to share data forces repeated data entry, multiple logins, and searches across systems, with data often ending up in isolated silos. This results in duplication, inconsistencies, and a fragmented view of information, potentially leading to missed opportunities for effective responses.

This issue is now recognised at the highest-level withing UK Policing. Connected technology is seen as a key enabler in the National Policing Digital Strategy, stating that the service ‘will put the power of data and information in the hands of officers and staff, when and where they need it’. Interoperability is also core to the 2024 Police Industry Charter’s principles and purpose.

The IPWG has identified five main recommendations that are necessary if interoperability is to become routine and truly ‘by design’.

  1. Interoperability Strategy: Create a strategy to reduce application dependencies and vendor lock-in, aligning with a national framework.
  2. Skills and Knowledge: Invest in training and external expertise to manage technology effectively and improve operational efficiency.
  3. Open APIs: Prefer solutions with open APIs to ease integration and enhance data sharing, using common data standards.
  4. Technology Evaluation: Regularly review technology performance to refine strategies and maximize investment.
  5. Collaboration: Engage with techUK for insights and solutions through market sessions to improve data sharing and technology practices.

You can download the report here

 

Georgie Morgan

Georgie Morgan

Head of Justice and Emergency Services, techUK

Georgie joined techUK as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager in March 2020, then becoming Head of Programme in January 2022.

Georgie leads techUK's engagement and activity across our blue light and criminal justice services, engaging with industry and stakeholders to unlock innovation, problem solve, future gaze and highlight the vital role technology plays in the delivery of critical public safety and justice services. The JES programme represents suppliers by creating a voice for those who are selling or looking to break into and navigate the blue light and criminal justice markets.

Prior to joining techUK, Georgie spent 4 and a half years managing a Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP) in Westminster. She worked closely with the Metropolitan Police and London borough councils to prevent and reduce the impact of crime on the business community. Her work ranged from the impact of low-level street crime and anti-social behaviour on the borough, to critical incidents and violent crime.

Email:
[email protected]
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgie-henley/

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Cinzia Miatto

Cinzia Miatto

Programme Manager - Justice & Emergency Services, techUK

Cinzia joined techUK in August 2023 as the Justice and Emergency Services (JES) Programme Manager.

The JES programme represents suppliers, championing their interests in the blue light and criminal justice markets, whether they are established entities or newcomers seeking to establish their presence.

Prior to join techUK, Cinzia held positions within the third and public sectors, managing international and multi-disciplinary projects and funding initiatives. Cinzia has a double MA degree in European Studies from the University of Göttingen (Germany) and the University of Udine (Italy), with a focus on politics and international relations.

Email:
[email protected]

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Ella Gago-Brookes

Ella Gago-Brookes

Team Assistant, Markets, techUK

Ella joined techUK in November 2023 as a Markets Team Assistant, supporting the Justice and Emergency Services, Central Government and Financial Services Programmes.  

Before joining the team, she was working at the Magistrates' Courts in legal administration and graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2022.  Ella attained an undergraduate degree in History and Politics, and a master's degree in International Relations and Security Studies, with a particular interest in studying asylum rights and gendered violence.  

In her spare time she enjoys going to the gym, watching true crime documentaries, travelling, and making her best attempts to become a better cook.  

Email:
[email protected]

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