02 Oct 2024

Driving Interoperability in Police Procurement

The Interoperability in policing working group (IPWG) at techUK has released a document to assist procurement departments in achieving successful interoperability outcomes.

Driving Interoperability in Police Procurement aims to support forces in developing an effective interoperability-first procurement strategy. This document summarises recommendations by the techUK Interoperability in Policing Working Group (IPWG) to support procurement practices that adopt an interoperability first approach.

A lack of technical expertise in purchasing decisions can lead to purchasing incompatible or inefficient solutions, disrupting workflows and reducing efficiency. This often results in wasted resources, increased costs, and complex integration with existing systems. Hidden expenses, such as upgrades and implementation, can further strain finances. Therefore, informed decision-makers are essential to avoid costly mistakes and ensure smooth integration of technology within the force.

The IPWG has identified three main areas that summarize the key components of an interoperability-first buyer: Requirements & Procurement specifications, Knowledge, Relationship & Expectations.

To ensure effective technology adoption in policing, informed buyers must understand both technology benefits and long-term goals. The IPWG recommends that forces:

Develop an interoperability strategy aligned with national goals to reduce dependencies and improve flexibility.
Build internal skills to navigate complex procurement and maximize value.
Prioritize solutions with open APIs to enable easier system integration and data sharing.
Engage with industry for insights and collaboration on best practices.
Regularly evaluate technology performance to refine strategies and optimize investments.

You can download the document here.

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

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 joining techUK, Cinzia worked in the third and public sectors, managing projects related to international trade and social inclusion.

Email:: [email protected]

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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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