In the fall of 2022, the Vancouver, British Columbia, Police Department (VPD) embarked on an initiative to modernize its patrol operations in a drive to become a more intelligence-led organization. For most police services, similar projects typically involve the creation of a high-tech operations command center (OCC) and other management oversight initiatives.¹ While not debating the value of an OCC, what is often overlooked are efforts to enhance the core capabilities of frontline patrol officers and the implementation of technology that can empower these same officers with the tools necessary to be proactive in addressing issues within the community. Patrol police officers are often the first point of contact when a situation arises, and they must manage a range of problems, often with limited resources and time. Patrol officers must deal with emerging situations as they develop. Considering this reality, the VPD sought to bring mission-critical resources to the police vehicle, as this is the primary “office” from which most police officers operate. The challenge was to implement a modernized system that could bridge information gaps and provide critical intelligence in real time, without overwhelming officers with information.

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