STRATEGIES TO INCREASE UTILIZATION OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT’S ONLINE REPORTING SYSTEM

The Office of the Mayor of Providence, Rhode Island includes a Research and Development team that provides research, analysis, and recommendations to support and implement policies and program initiatives across city departments. The Office of the Mayor engaged a Capstone team to develop a strategic plan to increase resident utilization of Providence Police Department’s online system for non-emergency calls for service. The team conducted a literature review, stakeholder interviews and focus groups, and a survey of Providence residents to determine best practices and key features of online reporting systems. Having identified perceived barriers to online reporting, the team developed persuasive messaging about the reporting system to encourage its utilization. The team’s final report includes recommendations to improve the accessibility of the online system and guidance on public education and outreach strategies to support increased use of the system.