Geographic Information System - Essay Example

The development of client-server technology in the 1980s made it possible for GIS to be obtainable at an inexpensive cost. However, it was in the 1990s when GIS technology progressed because of strong, efficient personal computers that were capable of handling considerable amounts of data.

Implementation of GIS
When implementing GIS, the organization will require efficient and enhanced computer systems to manage the rising number of records in its database. It will be essential to provide the staff with consistent power backup, archival gadgets, and software, good quality printers having the ability to give color prints, and user-responsive GIS mapping software (Asbell, 2003). The law enforcement agency will be required to buy and install several copies of the mapping and provide it to the crime analyst. Advanced computer networks will be required to connect to their local network as well as the countrywide network to distribute and share the data in all the existing departments of the organization (Burns, Leipnik, & Evans, 2003). This will enable all crime analysts to exchange data and examine all the reports. The computer system has to be aided with Computer Dispatch System to make the records management efficient and operational (Messina & May 2003).

Purpose of GIS and Impact of GIS on Law Enforcement
The purpose of GIS is to successfully handle and control resources; offer enhanced and improved situational alertness, make more knowledgeable and up-to-date assessments appropriately, increase planned and functional planning, effective communication, and understanding of the crime in a community, enhance police officer and community security and protection as well amplifying community certainty and satisfaction (Boba, 2003). Other purposes of GIS in the crime investigation department include investigation and analyzing crime, vehicle tracking, management of urgent situations and incidents, crime mapping, etc. GIS also gives information on crime incident locations to police officers and detectives.

The GIS used in law enforcement agencies has been recognized for its value and benefits. Undoubtedly, the GIS has effectively revolutionized law enforcement agencies. GIS has allowed agencies to add all types of data to map in determining spatial patterns which has effectively organized crime analysis and prevention. (Albert & Leipnik, 2003) Computer mapping will enable them to map numerous levels of data which assists in understanding the holistic view of crime in its settings. The mapping through GIS calculates crime density which can assist in patrol activities. Data analysis aided with GIS has made it possible to characterize crime situations around a specific location. GIS has become a controlling and prevailing management information tool. GIS can completely affect law enforcement agencies to understand the parameters of illegal activities. Read More