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Computer-assisted dispatch (also called CAD) is a method of dispatching taxicabs, couriers, field service technicians, or emergency services assisted by computer. It can either be used to send messages to the dispatchee via a mobile data terminal (also called an MDT) and/or used to store and retrieve data (i.e. radio logs, field interviews, client information, Schedules, etc.) A dispatcher may announce the call details to field units over a two-way radio. Some systems communicate using a two-way radio system's selective calling features. CAD systems may send text messages with call-for-service details to alphanumeric pagers or wireless telephony text services like SMS. The central idea is that persons in a dispatch center are able to easily view and understand the status of all units being dispatched. CAD provides displays and tools so that the dispatcher has an opportunity to handle calls-for-service as efficiently as possible. CAD typically consists of a suite of software packages used to initiate public safety calls for service, dispatch, and maintain the status of responding resources in the field. It is generally used by emergency communications dispatchers, call-takers, and 911 operators in centralized, public-safety call centers, as well as by field personnel utilizing mobile data terminals (MDTs) or mobile data computers (MDCs). CAD systems consist of several modules that provide services at multiple levels in a dispatch center and in the field of public safety. These services include call input, call dispatching, call status maintenance, event notes, field unit status and tracking, and call resolution and disposition. CAD systems also include interfaces that permit the software to provide services to dispatchers, calltakers, and field personnel with respect to control and use of analog radio and telephony equipment, as well as logger-recorder functions.
Manual dispatching Computer-assisted dispatching improves the efficiency and accuracy of each step of the manual process: Computer-assisted method Computer-assisted dispatch systems use one or more servers located in a central dispatch office, which communicate with mobile data terminals installed in the remote vehicles. There are a multitude of CAD programs that suit different department needs, but the layout of each system is the same. The purpose of CAD in the first place is to quicken the information that is received or transmitted from the call-taker or dispatcher to those who will facilitate the original call. In an ideal setting, a call is received by a call-taker and information about the call is inputted into the CAD template. Generally, Location, Reporting Party and Incident are the main the fields that have to be populated by type-codes. For example, if there was a Burglary in progress, the type-code for that Incident could be "BURG;" when BURG is typed out, then the Program will spell out "BURGLARY (in progress)." If the Location was at the 1400 block of Madison, the type-code could be "14MAD." The Reporting Party information would be populated by the call-taker including Last Name, First Name, Call-Back number, etc. A typical CAD printout look something like this based on the examples below: LOCATION - 1400 Madison RP - Doe, John, 555-5555 INCIDENT - BURGLARY (in progress) Again, granted as it can be seen that the fields are spelled out, the call-taker uses those abbreviations that are already predetermined in order to quickly gather and transmit the information. The dispatcher then receives the call from the call-taker and is able dispatch the call to those available. The dispatcher's screen would show the available personnel that are dispatchable. A typical setting can be exemplified by this: ----------------------------------- INCIDENT RP - Doe, John, 555-5555 INCIDENT - BURGLARY (In Progress) ----------------------------------- Units available - (3) Units out of service - (2) 745 - Avail. 746 - Not Avail. Inc 748 - Avail. 749 - Not Avail. Inc Everything that is gathered, dispatched and disposed is usually stored in a central server where the type codes reside in, or possibly another server. All of these calls which have incident numbers attached to them can be recalled by an internal search engine. For example, a request for a printout of all calls to Madison in the past hour could be gathered by querying the CAD program by Location: Search by: Location LOCATION --- Result: (Now filled in) Search by: Location LOCATION 14MAD --- Result: (1) Incidents CAD can be used in a multitude of ways, whether it is for radio logs, call logs or statistical analysis. Computerized mapping, GPS, Automatic number identification and caller-identification technology are often used to enhance the service by pinpointing the locations of both the client and the most suitable vehicle for serving the client. In public safety systems, standards are under discussion to allow disparate systems to exchange call information. For example, a call taker at the county fire department receives a call for an auto accident inside a city limit. Evolving standards will allow CAD systems to send messages to one another for calls originating outside local jurisdiction. Some entities have arrangements that already support data exchange between systems, but standards aim to make these interconnections more common. Because of auditing trail and fail-safe needs, the problem is more complex than it sounds. Part of business enterprise computing system In business use of CAD, the dispatch system may be a module or part of a larger enterprise computing system. One example is Command Alkon's COMMANDconcrete software, which manages orders, batch processing, and delivery for concrete plants. One optional component of the system is called "Truck Tracking." The module tracks the status of concrete delivery vehicles, which jobs they are assigned to, estimated time until avialable. It is a CAD for use with a fleet of transit mixers. Original article Notes See also CAD & Related Software Packages | ||||||||
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