The integrated, multi-jurisdictional computer aided dispatch (CAD), records management for both police and fire departments, mobile computing, field reporting and corrections management solution will serve public safety agencies including the Sheriff's Department, Gaston County Police, Gastonia City Police, Gastonia City Fire, County Volunteer Fire Departments, Emergency Management and the County Communications department which manages the CAD system.
The county spent approximately a year evaluating public safety software and vendors. "We looked for a vendor that could provide a comprehensive public safety solution, which narrowed the number of vendors very quickly," said CIO Keith Davis, Gastonia, N.C.
The Gaston County public safety agencies are replacing a system, because the vendor dropped support on its corrections package and other software applications never worked for the agency.
"We also need a completely integrated system," said Chief Bill Farley, Gaston County. "Because of the lack of integration we have difficulty accessing information when we need it. One of the purposes in licensing New World's solution is to streamline the data entry process and access critical information in real-time."
The county's new solution was developed from the ground up, ensuring seamless integration between all applications. The robust records management software stores information on a person, location or property in a single file, making it easy for dispatchers, officers, detectives, corrections officers, etc., to acquire information quickly. For instance, dispatchers can alert officers of warrants, gun registrations, and other hazards prior to arriving at a scene, increasing safety for all parties.
"Because of the difficulty we had with our previous vendor, we did our due diligence and spoke with several New World customers to learn about its software and the quality of support and service provided before making a final decision," said Chief Farley. "New World has a solid, happy customer base, and we look forward to the many benefits of partnering with the company."
The software will help 250 officers and 40 dispatchers provide enhanced service to approximately 200,000 citizens. Software implementation will begin immediately and will be up and running in summer of 2005.
