FIRST RESPONDERS HAVE DIRECT LINE TO SUBMIT CAPABILITY GAPS AND INFORMATION REQUESTS TO U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Science & Technology Directorate

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Science and Technology Directorate TechSolutions program has launched a new Web site, www.TechSolutions.DHS.gov, to provide a channel through which first responders can submit requests related to capability gaps that require technology solutions. TechSolutions provides first responders with a resource they can use to find solutions for these high-priority capability gaps. TechSolutions uses rapid prototyping, technical assistance and information sharing to save lives and maximize first responder preparedness. All submissions to the TechSolutions Web site must come from first responders. For more information on TechSolutions program, please visit www.TechSolutions.DHS.gov or www.FirstResponder.gov.

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has a similar research, development, testing and evaluation process that aligns NIJ's portfolios with the technology needs of the criminal justice community. Principally working in partnership with technology working groups consisting of experienced practitioners from local, state, tribal and federal agencies and laboratories and the Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Advisory Council, NIJ identifies criminal justice practitioners’ functional requirements for new tools and technologies. Individual criminal justice practitioners are also encouraged to submit their technology needs and requirements directly through the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center system by e-mail to asknlectc@nlectc.org or by calling (800) 248-2742. For more information, visit www.JUSTNET.org.