What to Know When Switching Public Safety Software Providers

Information provided by Spillman Technologies

It’s happening. The software you’ve been using for the last five years just isn’t cutting it anymore. Between system failures and trouble getting technical support on the line, everyone in the department is ready to pull their hair out. But what can you do? You assumed this software would be the godsend you needed at the time because it came with all the promises of a perfect system. Switching providers now could simply put you in the same position you were in before, with plenty of unfulfilled promises, and now with the added issue of a new vendor to try and get a hold of. How can you know the next move will be the right one?

Agencies across the nation often find themselves in similar situations of settling for public safety software that works initially, but only provides half of what they need in the long term. There are many factors to consider when purchasing a software solution, and researching everything a potential vendor has to offer that will meet your agency’s specific needs can be time-consuming. However, the endeavour pays for itself when you consider that it dramatically cuts down your time spent brainstorming compromises and short-term fixes for a software solution that can’t deliver the full experience.

What Should I Look For?

We all know that there’s no such thing as a flawless software solution. Technology of any kind comes with a few hurdles here and there. However, here are some general factors that need to be considered by any agency looking for new software.

1. Complete Integration

Software that provides true integration throughout its entire system means that all dispatch, patrol, records, and jail personnel have access to the same, accurate data in real time. When all records are stored in one centralized database, record duplication is all but eliminated, improving workflow processes. A centralized database also means that users only have one system to log in to, saving critical time for personnel across the department.

2. Flexibility

As a community grows, develops, or changes over time, its law enforcement agencies must change with it. This means the agency also requires a software solution that is flexible enough to adapt along beside it. Having software that provides multiple, ready-made modules to create one robust system is helpful because it allows for flexible configurations that work directly to address your agency’s pain points. In addition, a modular solution means you also benefit from off-the-shelf software pricing.

3. Multi-Jurisdictional Data Sharing

Data sharing should go past your agency walls. Being able to share data with neighboring agencies can lead to swifter and more thorough investigations for all parties involved. Look for a software solution that allows you to seamlessly share information in a multi-jurisdictional setting, while still preserving individual agency standards and data integrity.

4. Quick Access to Critical Data

This may seem like an obvious consideration, but not all software solutions offer quick and easy access to all records within an agency’s database from anywhere in the system. Choose a solution that allows your personnel to search multiple record sources at once without complex back-end reports, thus reducing response time and dependence on report-writing personnel.

5. Seamless Interfaces

Since there’s never a way to get every piece of needed functionality into one system, you need to look for a system that also features dozens of robust interfaces, as well as the possibility to make additional interfaces as needed. This will allow your agency to work more efficiently with other third-party software applications you may currently be using.

6. Proven Implementation Record

It’s not just the functionality of a software solution that you should consider. Implementing a new public safety software system is a big undertaking for any agency and software vendor. Be sure to make a purchase that is backed by an experienced implementation team with a proven record of installing on time and within budget.

7. Comprehensive Support and Training Options

Reliability applies to more than just software - you need a reliable vendor as well. When researching potential vendors, look for one that offers 24/7 access to technical support, product documentation, user manuals, training videos, and more. Also consider whether your personnel can take part in comprehensive, end-user training sessions from expert trainers.

8. Customer/Vendor Partnership Mindset

How a software vendor views its relationships with customers is another good indicator into how long you’ll want to stay with that same provider. Find a vendor that values lifetime customer partnerships through dedicated personnel who work to ensure overall satisfaction and attainment of your agency’s specific goals. In addition, looking at the vendor’s customer longevity can give you insight into how customers view the relationship and the vendor’s ability to deliver on promises.

9. Customer-Driven Innovation

Being able to contribute to a software solution’s evolution is truly priceless. Your agency needs a vendor that will not only ask for customer feedback regarding software features and updates, but has the bandwidth to actually implement those suggestions into future releases. This helps to ensure that the software continues to meet your needs and expectations.

10. Vision for the Future

When you buy a software solution, you also need to buy-in on the software company’s vision for the software portfolio. Be sure to do your research and understand not only where the software will be tomorrow, but where it will be five or ten years from now and how it will impact your agency. The best software system is one that continues to evolve in order to provide agencies with intelligent capabilities to work smarter and more efficiently.

What’s the Next Step?

To ensure your agency receives the right solution, you need to start out with the correct process in place to make sure the right questions are being asked. Creating an organized, systematic process using the tips above will help you gather pertinent information, evaluate potential vendors, and make a sound purchasing decision. To help you get started, download a FREE Guide to Purchasing.

Bio:

Jessica Barker is a marketing writer for Spillman Technologies, a Motorola Solutions Company, which provides public safety software specializing in true software integration and unrivaled customer success for RMS, CAD, JMS, Mobile, and Analytics solutions.