Computerization
| Author | J. W. Kelland |
| DOI | 10.1177/0032258X6804100513 |
| Date | 01 May 1968 |
| Published date | 01 May 1968 |
| Subject Matter | Article |
CHIEF
INSPECTOR
J.
W.
KELLAND
Research and Development Branch
Devon and Cornwall Constabulary
~O~UTERIZATION
It
seems that no matter where one turns today there is no
escape from computer terminology. " Software",
"hardware",
"sequential information" and
"magnetic
discs"
are but a few
of the phrases bandied about haphazardly. Newspapers daily
carry large advertisements for systems analysts,
data
processors,
programmers and punch operators. Police forces are no exception
to the rule
and
there is little doubt that in the foreseeable future
the language of the computer will become commonplace through-
out the Service.
Despite this familiarity there is not yet a widespread use of
computers within the Police Service. Some forces are already
committed but others are still in the planning stage. The observa-
tions I have to offer may avoid some of the elementary mistakes
which can arise.
It
is not suggested that we are very far advanced; indeed some
colleagues who took part in a seminar organized by LB.M. at
Winchester recently are working on more refined systems of data
processing. But in the rather mundane field of Home Office
statistics we have managed to save time and effort.
It
is also a fact that many fine automatic data processing systems
are operated within the Police Service without the aid of a com-
puter and one would not wish to pretend there is no merit in
being self-contained.
Our
decision to computerize and establish acentral statistics
office staffed by civilians was taken last year and two factors
had
adirect bearing on its introduction: first, the amalgamation of
the Devon and Exeter force (itself recently amalgamated) with the
Plymouth oity and Cornwall county forces - two city and two
county forces. Second, the purchase by the Devon county council
of an LB.M. 360 computer and by the Cornwall county council
of an LC.T. computer.
The Devon computer takes all statistics in respect of offenders
and offences, all crime statistics, and will provide monthly and
annual "pliint
outs"
to enable completion of Home Office and
other returns. Random access times
for
obtaining other data
have already been arranged. Traffic accident statistics are pro-
grammed on to the Truro computer which also will provide regular
print outs for returns
and
allow for casual inquiries at reason-
A1ay 1968 223
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