Going mobile to increase operational effectiveness & improve situational awareness.

"Going Mobile to Increase Operational Effectiveness & Improve Situational Awareness: One Agency’s Story," where the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) shares its journey in modernizing law enforcement operations through mobile technology. Discover how DPS has successfully deployed over 6,500 managed department phones, with a strategic focus on Android devices for officers. This decision not only enhanced operational efficiency but also minimized the need for officers to switch devices, ensuring a seamless transition. We'll explore the benefits of Android over iOS for public safety, including innovative uses of hardware and software like Push-to-Talk (PTT) buttons and Plugnix TAK data transmission. The session will also address the critical issue of government accountability and the challenges iMessage poses in this regard. Learn how DPS has leveraged mobile technology beyond just a communication tool, using it for record-keeping, evidence collection, situational awareness, and more. The webinar will highlight the importance of integrating these devices into daily operations, with discussions on optimal phone placement on uniforms, robust policies, leadership expectations, and the necessity of comprehensive training—comparable in importance to firearms and radios. Additionally, we'll cover the challenges of standardizing apps across a diverse law enforcement landscape and the strategic balance needed to prevent officers from reverting to personal devices. The session will conclude with a look at DPS's future goals, including enhanced training, the development of a mobile-friendly CAD system, and the implementation of FIDO-based multi-factor authentication. This webinar is essential for law enforcement agencies looking to enhance their mobile capabilities and improve operational effectiveness and situational awareness in the field.