NCJ Number
200453
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 70 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2003 Pages: 45,47,48
Date Published
May 2003
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes how the Web site of the Omaha Police Department (Nebraska) was enhanced to significantly free up resources, gain efficiency, and improve its image.
Abstract
The enhanced Web site offers copies of accident reports, the service most often requested by constituents. A part-time clerk has been trained to complete the necessary work during the slower hours of the shift. Constituents have taken full advantage of the new service, so requests for certain police services at police facilities have noticeably decreased. In addition, citizens who wish to register handguns, have fingerprints taken, or complete taxi-cab applications are encouraged to schedule appointments online. Persons with scheduled appointments are given preference over those without scheduled appointments. Work flow is managed by having appointments set during nonpeak hours. The following features are either already offered on the Web site or are currently being constructed: press releases, comprehensive information, links to other relevant Web sites, copies of crime reports, permits and special services, traffic complaints, criminal histories, crime statistics, and crime-prevention tips. The author advises that all department functions that are service-related should be considered when planning to use electronic technology, even if only on an informational basis. Should funding for the more elaborate e-commerce functions be insufficient, the low-cost or no-cost services should still be featured.