Technology Services
Fiscal year 2006-2007 proved to be both challenging and successful. The mission of the Technology Services Unit is to provide the highest quality technological services, in the most cost effective manner, to facilitate the mission of Probation as it applies to reducing the incidence and criminal behavior of juveniles and adults. We promote the use of technology to support the Department's mission, empower staff, foster collaboration, and to improve the efficiency of operations through automation.
The Department's use of technology and the complexity of new technology continue to expand. All the while, the responsibilities of the Technology Services continue unchanged. Technology responsibilities include:
- Provide effective technology support to all areas of Probation.
- Develop, enhance, and manage Probation's networks to provide high speed, transparent, and highly functional connectivity among all information resources.
- Develop and maintain highly effective, reliable, secure, and innovative information systems.
- Promote new uses of information technology within Probation.
- Facilitate the collection, storage, security and integrity of electronic data while ensuring appropriate access.
- Provide leadership for effective strategic and tactical planning in the use of technology.
- Keep the department informed on trends and new regulations by maintaining an active status in technology groups such as, the Kern Information Technology Users Group (KITUG) and the Probation Information Technology Managers Association (PITMA).
- Track issues and their causes to accelerate problem resolution and reduce future occurrences.
- Research and prepare for the future technological direction of the department.
- Collaborate with other agencies both internal and external to the County.
The year began with a plan to reorganize the unit by adding staff and creating a position that was given a place at the management table. This plan was executed successfully and resulted in the addition of staff, as well as, a position that will help bridge the gap between the Probation business and technology. The increase in staff afforded Technology Services the opportunity to begin and complete several projects that directly relate to the future growth of this department. These projects will help revolutionize the way Probation business is conducted in Kern County.
The year ended with the release the Department's Strategic Plan that will guide us into the future. Technology Services continues to define the role the unit will play in helping the Department achieve the goals set forth in the plan. Anticipated projects for 2007-08 include the development of a case management plan.
