Issue link: http://lawandordermag.epubxp.com/i/139048
under diffcult conditions. In the past, one of the obstacles law enforcement agencies faced in obtaining in-car video was the ability to obtain the community's acceptance. In today's world, communities not only accept the technology in the modern-day police vehicle but, in some cases, demand it." From the evaluation phase to system deployment to effective training, the process of implementing mobile-video camera technology can be overwhelming. And since most police agencies must work within a budget, technology choices are often limited. In order to determine which video system is right for their needs, agencies should research their options and work closely with the vendor for guidance during system setup and implementation, and ensure that training and ongoing tech support will be available. As SVP of Marketing & Business Development for Coban Technologies, Inc., David Hinojosa fnds that one of the major challenges facing agencies is their expectations of what the system can do and how it is going to be used. "You still have many agencies that have never had in-car video or are looking to transition from analog. There are big differences from a standalone DVR to a digital video solution. A good digital video solution should help streamline and automate operations. Sometimes it's diffcult to wrap your head around the access points and servers, but in the end it will pay off," Hinojosa said. Adam Rushlow, Communications Director for WatchGuard Video, stressed the importance of gaining a full knowledge of not just the products available, but the mobile video industry as a whole. He recommends agencies do extensive research, navigate all the options, evaluate the systems, and confrm that after-purchase support is available. "WatchGuard works closely with agencies to ensure a successful deployment. We have a full-time technical services team and customer support staff available to make frst-time deployments a success," Rushlow said. Burridge emphasizes the importance of involving all of the potential stakeholders that may be impacted by the acquisition of the technology. He said that in addition to administrators, su- FEDERAL SIGNAL L-3 COMM MARTEL www.lawandordermag.com 23