Motorola Foundation Funds SILS Research in Mobile Technology
As any regular viewer of CSI would know, there are many potential uses for mobile technology in police work. Investigative processes are expedited by mobile applications and devices that rapidly analyse crime scenes, identify people and provide instant access vast databases. GPS-enabled phones provide vital information on building structures.
In a new research project, supported by the Motorola Foundation, UCD researchers will investigate factors affecting the adoption and use of this technology by police.
Commenting on the project, Professor Diane H. Sonnenwald, Head of the UCD School of Information and Library Studies and project leader said, “IT change in the public sector can take time, and in the law enforcement arena, there are legal and ethical issues to consider. Identifying these and other issues can enhance the design and roll out of new mobile technologies.”
Postdoctoral scholar Andrea C. Johnson UCD School of Information & Library Studies, is conducting much of the research, which will use interview and “visioning” techniques to identify socio-technical factors that influence the uptake and use of mobile technology in police organisations as well as perspectives on the feasibility and advantages of this.
The research team will be resourced by former Chief Superintendent in charge of IT at An Garda Síochána, Dr Eddie Cussen. Members of the Project Oversight and Advisory Board include Dr Pádraic Conway, UCD Vice-President for University Relations and Mr Vincent Kennedy, Country Manager Motorola Ireland.
Mr Vincent Kennedy from Motorola expressed his enthusiastic support for the project, saying, “This project brings together multiple groups who share a common interest in the challenge of law enforcement, in which we all have a direct interest. We hope that the research will outline how the potential of this technology could be realised for police work."
