Should the Metropolitan Police be investing in new technology such as smartphones, tablet computers, fingerprint scanners and body cameras to help officers work better – or are they a costly distraction? And can the Met achieve the technology savings it is planning while still meeting its targets to cut crime and boost public confidence?
The London Assembly’s Budget and Performance Committee is reviewing the Met’s technology strategy. The force spends about £325m a year on technology; over a third is tied up in a deal with Capgemini that is due to end in 2015.
John Biggs, Chair of the Budget and Performance Committee, said: “The Met is facing budget cuts of 20 per cent over the next three years and it is inevitable that technology spending is going to feel the squeeze, but it is clearly also the case that judicious investment in technology could improve productivity and be an aid to change.
“Whether it’s backroom ICT support or the use of innovative new devices like smartphones or fingerprint scanners, the Met will need to ensure that it’s getting the best value for money. We all know that big IT projects often have a habit of getting out of control and falling victim to unforeseen glitches, compatibility problems and ballooning costs. Our review is all about ensuring that the Met avoids the pitfalls and gets the most out of the technology budget, because at the end of the day, better deals and smarter systems could mean a more efficient police force and more officers out on the streets.”
– See more at: http://www.london.gov.uk/media/press_releases_london_assembly/how-will-met-ict-cuts-impact-fight-against-crime
