On February 24, 2009, City Council approved the purchase of a computer aided dispatch (CAD) and records management system (RMS) from TriTech Software Systems. This project included the incorporation of the city's GIS maps for Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) of all public safety vehicles in order to enable the system to dispatch First Responders more efficiently.
The CAD system is utilized by the 9-1-1 and non-emergency dispatchers when taking emergency calls from the public. This system allows dispatch personnel to efficiently dispatch public safety first responders to their destination as well as track all activity the first responders need to keep the citizens, police and fire personnel safe. This annual service agreement provides the city with the software support and maintenance as well as upgrades to keep the public safety systems current, accurate and operational.
An RFP for a new combined CAD/RMS is underway now and being evaluated by staff. While the new system will eventually replace this CAD application, Allen needs to continue paying software maintenance on our existing systems to ensure uninterrupted service for 911 dispatch. It is expected this maintenance will be required for another one to two years while the new system is procured and implemented.