Tech firm picked for police work
NSW Police has picked a software provider to begin a $1 billion overhaul.
US-based public safety software provider Mark43 has been selected to deliver the first components of the state’s new cloud-based integrated policing operating system (IPOS).
It appears to have ended a five-year search for the right company to replace the force's 27-year-old core operational policing system (COPS).
IPOS will replace COPS for the 18,000-strong NSW Police workforce, assisting in everyday operations such as arrest and charges, criminal investigations and forensic analysis.
In coming years, IPOS will also replace the decade-old Fujitsu computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system for Triple Zero callouts.
Additionally, every frontline officer will be equipped with ‘MobiPol’ mobile devices to “provide them with information and intelligence anywhere and anytime”, NSW Police says.
Mark43 is expected to work on the call-taking, dispatch, records, investigations, and forensics components of IPOS, creating a “single platform” system.
The new system should reduce data entry time for officers, decreasing incident response times and improving officer safety.
“IPOS will simplify processes and introduce technology that is integrated, easy to use and fast,” NSW Police corporate services deputy commissioner Mal Lanyon said.
“These unparalleled efficiencies will save administrative time for frontline officers, allowing them to spend more time policing.”
The total cost of the IPOS scheme is expected to be in excess of $1 billion over 15 years.
“Modernisation of core technology is critical for the NSW Police Force to improve operational flexibility, reduce the risk of outdated legacy systems and respond to challenges of the modern policing environment,” Mr Lanyon added.