Elly Yates-Roberts |
Cumbria and Durham police constabularies in the UK have created their own apps on Microsoft Power Platform to make it easier for officers to record statements and information about crimes in their area.
According to Microsoft, using Power Platform will enable the constabularies to modernise and streamline how they work, reducing paperwork and allowing officers to spend more time in their communities.
Microsoft partner Tisski worked with the constabularies to build a digital “pocket notebook” app and others that help officers record statements, and access and log information. They can run on any device, are automatically updated, have in-built regulatory compliance and security standards, and can integrate with core police systems, such as the Police National Computer.
“Like policing, technology is constantly advancing and the partnership between Cumbria Constabulary, Durham Constabulary, Tisski and Microsoft means that as innovative ways to solve challenges emerge, we are in a good position to use them,” said chief superintendent Jonathan Blackwell of Cumbria Constabulary.
As part of the project, multiple applications were rolled into a single, easy-to-access alternative. “Now, entire solutions can be managed and maintained in-house, helping Cumbria save on licensing costs and massively reducing the time needed to introduce new features,” said Microsoft.
Durham Constabulary will benefit from Cumbria’s development by adopting the same technology, enabling it to roll out the solution quickly and easily.
“Power Apps is empowering organisations to create their own tools that tackle inefficiencies, save time and reduce costs,” said Marie Abery, Dynamics Business group director at Microsoft UK. “This is crucial in the public sector, where value for money is a key consideration. I am delighted that Cumbria and Durham constabularies have taken solid steps into their digital future, from creating a single app to rolling out more apps that help officers connect with citizens.”