Digital Transformation: A Focus on the User
Basic digital skills in 2022 are a necessity and not a privilege. This was made evident by the societal upheaval of the Covid-19 pandemic. Technology made it possible to stay in touch with family and friends and enabled people to work from home. It also helped everyone to feel connected and informed. The pandemic highlighted the necessity of digital transformation everywhere, especially in the criminal justice system where isolation and manual processes were dominant.
Digital Transformation for Staff
The pandemic has raised a fresh approach to modernising the criminal justice system. HM Prison and Probation Service released its Digital and Technology Strategy to revolutionise its services and help people to do their jobs more effectively by harnessing new technology.
The criminal justice system is now incorporating digital processes with the help of innovative software companies. Solutions have been developed that are secure and tailored to the user’s needs. These solutions can automate all manual processes that reduce paperwork, time, money and frustrations. They also revolutionise communications by offering video calling and electronic messaging that builds productive relationships. Furthermore, these solutions can improve reporting methods by keeping important documentation in one place.
Digital Transformation for Victims
Digital solutions can improve a victim’s experience of the criminal justice system through a transformation of communications. The Crown Prosecution Services are recognising the need for change and seek to resolve issues through new models. They recognise the power of technology for delivering justice and are seeking technology companies to provide solutions.
They are focusing on the ‘tell me once’[1] idea that prevents victims from relaying the traumatic experience of the crime committed. Digital solutions have been developed to help victims stay informed through automated reporting that updates the victims on the progress of cases more efficiently.
Previously, victims were having to rely on manual processes that left room for error. Securely collating data that keep victims informed on the progress of cases can help them feel supported and build confidence in the criminal justice system.
Digital Transformation for the Prisoner
Prisoners are isolated and often have to rely on staff to do the most basic of tasks. This can create dependency and reduces the ability of self-reliance that is needed for successful rehabilitation. Digitally transforming prisons offers the prisoner a chance to take control and build basic skills needed upon release.
Software companies are providing solutions that promote normalisation[2] that makes life inside the prison as close to the outside world as possible. Providing digital platforms that can resemble online shopping and Microsoft word can build the prisoner’s digital skills and confidence to succeed when released.
Solutions have been developed for a prisoner to book appointments, have video calls with family and friends, select their own meals and have access to educational materials that proves advantageous through the gate. Educational material, provided digitally provides opportunities to self-learn, which builds confidence and self-belief that is crucial for re-entry.
Digital exclusion, in 2022, is a set-up for failure. Access to technology can provide real change for prisoners and equips them with tools to help them succeed. To re-adapt back into society, the prisoner needs to have basic digital skills for an evolved technology era.
Digital Transformation of the Criminal Justice System
User-focused software solutions that address individual needs can provide real change for people in the criminal justice system in the aftermath of the pandemic. Digital transformations revolutionise processes, strengthen relationships, build trust, and reduce rates of recidivism.
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