Computer as an Operational Aid (From Use of Computers in the Criminal Justice System - Proceedings, P 7-27, 1981, John Walker, ed. - See NCJ-85378)

• NCJ Number: 85379
• Author(s): W Clifford; K Smith; F Richardson
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 21 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; Australian Institute of Criminology
• Language: English
• Country: Australia

Annotation

This paper addresses the history and coordination of computer use between Australian Government agencies, particularly the Justice Department.

Abstract

Computers have provided an operational aid in Western Australia since the mid-1960's. Initially, the middle layer of management was the primary user of computing facilities, employing computers for such tasks as accounts and payrolls. Today, computers are used by the four interdepartmental systems of health, land information, Government accounting, and justice. In determining the location of the central computer in each system, a four-step approach is employed. Considerations include the global relationships between departments, the possibility of shared computing facilities, use of standard interfaces, and providing for the devolution of computing facilities as requirements grow. To ensure privacy within the Justice Department, data are classified as private, restricted, and public. Computer systems which are currently in use include a vehicle and driver licensing system, a prisoner records system, and a client record system. It is anticipated that court operations scheduling systems and probation and parole records systems may be added in the future. Illustrations are provided.