| The purpose of this qualitative exploratory study was to determine what technological tools and techniques should be used to assist detectives and sergeants to integrate analytics into their decision-making processes. The problem identified was the disconnection between the analytics provided by a data analyst and the decision-making processes of the sergeants and detectives. This study identified analytical tools or techniques that should be used by the law enforcement agency's detectives or sergeants to improve the integration of analytical intelligence into the department's tactical and strategic decision-making processes. The exploratory qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to gain information from 12 participants who are current or former detectives, sergeants, or crime analysts within the Dallas/Fort Worth area, with at least 4 years of experience as a detective, sergeant, or crime analyst. Data was analyzed by using a thematic analysis. The following themes emerged as areas that affect the integration of analytical intelligence into decision-making processes: (a) budget, (b) community involvement, (c) data characteristics, (d) resources, (f) technology, (g) training, and (h) department policies. The key findings suggest specific technological capabilities that provide enhancements to data capture, availability, accessibility, and dissemination improve the level of trustworthiness detectives and sergeants associate with the different pieces of intelligence produced through analytics. |
