Speed, accuracy, and seamless communication can be key factors in keeping a community safe. “Officers rely on accurate, timely information to make quick life-saving decisions—often under intense pressure,” said Peri Ramasamy, vice president of business development at ProPhoenix Corporation. So how can officers manage it all in the heat of the moment?

Enter computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems. These advanced technologies act as mission control, instantly connecting officers with dispatchers, tracking resources, and analyzing crime patterns to ensure efficient operations. A reliable system ensures that officers are equipped with the data they need before arriving on the scene. As police continue to embrace unique digital solutions, CAD systems are proving to be more than just tools—they’re lifelines.

The policing profession is becoming more connected, data-driven, and responsive than ever before. Officers now need systems that provide easy access to their own data, support simple and effective data sharing between agencies, and empower end users to retrieve and use data without relying heavily on IT departments.

Optimum Technology, Inc., products address these needs directly. “We’re not trying to change the profession,” said Chief Business Development Officer Greg Davda Sr. “We’re building tools that support the way modern law enforcement agencies operate and adapt to evolving data expectations.” Optimum Technology showed some initial success following the development of their original system in the early 2000s but stepped away from the CAD market to focus on other critical public safety solutions, such as the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. However, company leaders soon recognized a growing need for a modern CAD system. “Many market leaders have failed to evolve, resulting in products that lacked innovation and differentiation,” said Davda. “We returned to the CAD space with a fresh perspective, developing SWIFTCAD from the ground up with direct input from end users.” The innovative approach resulted in a differentiated CAD platform that meets the evolving needs of policing and emergency communication professionals.

After the launch of Optimum Technology’s newest records management system (RMS) in 2021, many agencies expressed a strong desire for a complementary CAD system that included data sharing and full interoperability with other systems and vendors. Addressing this head-on, Optimum Technology developers built a solution to break down those barriers and deliver a seamless experience. SWIFTCAD is built on a lightweight, modern architecture that enables deployment anytime and anywhere with internet access. The platform is compatible with any modern Windows device and can even run effectively on low-cost hardware. SWIFTCAD’s fully integrated mobile app for iOS and Android devices allows dispatchers and field responders access to real-time information while in the field.

Also aiming to improve clarity, coordination, and decision-making during calls for response is Versaterm. For over 40 years, Versaterm has supported police, fire, and emergency medical services through their purpose-built public safety suite. The ecosystem includes an RMS, responder health and wellness solutions, and community engagement tools, among many other features. A core piece of this suite is Versaterm CAD, which emerged from a need to simplify dispatch operations while improving safety and collaboration.

Versaterm CAD is a powerful, integrated software solution designed to manage emergency incidents from intake to resolution. After hearing concerns for a more integrated tool that could adapt to high-pressure scenarios, scale across jurisdictions, and keep officers connected, developers made interoperability one of Versaterm CAD’s key features. It connects agencies and jurisdictions to allow seamless communication and resource sharing. Other capabilities include automatic vehicle location for real-time unit tracking and dispatch, integration with high-resolution mapping tools like EagleView to enhance situational awareness, and mobile accessibility so that officers can receive updates via mobile data terminals and smartphones. The Advanced Triage feature helps determine the appropriate response for faster, smarter dispatching.

The software empowers real-time communication, data-sharing, and responder coordination. The system has evolved to meet the dynamic needs of modern policing, with support for Next Generation 911, cloud deployments, and advanced geospatial and mobile integrations. With these capabilities, Versaterm CAD streamlines workflows, reduces response times, and improves officer and community safety.

Since 2001, ProPhoenix has also been delivering a fully integrated public safety software solution. Phoenix CAD and MugMatch are core components of the ProPhoenix platform.

Phoenix CAD was developed in response to the need for a configurable solution that breaks down the silos between CAD, RMS, and mobile systems, empowering departments to respond faster and make smarter decisions. It can operate on any secure, internet-connected device. The software includes intelligent call-taking, automatic unit recommendation based on availability and GPS proximity, seamless access to RMS data, and much more. It is highly configurable and supports multijurisdictional operations with role-based access and flexible workflows. “By reducing radio traffic and streamlining communication between dispatchers and field units, Phoenix CAD enables faster response times and improves coordination,” said Ramasamy.

MugMatch grew from the desire to leverage artificial intelligence technology to help investigators and patrol officers identify individuals quickly and accurately using photo or video input. The inclusion of advanced facial recognition algorithms allows officers to match photos or video stills against existing mugshot databases. It delivers near-instant search results with accuracy indicators and confidence scores, allowing investigators to identify suspects or persons of interest quickly and reliably, while adhering to strict auditing and accountability controls. MugMatch accelerates case work, enhances officer safety, and reduces manual search time.

ProPhoenix’s RMS ties everything together. It serves as the central repository for case data, incident reports, field interviews, warrants, property tracking, and more. Designed to work hand-in-hand with Phoenix CAD, the RMS allows officers and command staff to query and analyze data in real time—from anywhere.

Conclusion

In an era where technology shapes every aspect of public safety, dispatch systems like CAD and RMS have become indispensable tools. “Ultimately, these technologies have helped agencies shift from reactive models of policing to proactive, predictive, and accountable approaches—strengthening both public safety and public trust,” said Ramasamy.

From streamlining emergency responses to enhancing officer coordination and crime analysis, these platforms bridge the gap between rapid decision-making and effective police response. As agencies continue to adapt to evolving challenges, investing in these digital lifelines ensures that police remain agile, informed, and prepared to protect the communities they serve.d

Please cite as:

“Every Second Counts,” Product Feature, Police Chief 92, no. 7 (July 2025): 52-55.