What Makes PPDS v7.0 Different from Past Versions?

The most flexible Emergency Police Dispatch solution has been on the market for over two decades. In that time, it’s undergone countless changes and updates to keep itself at the cutting edge of law enforcement response. Version 7 of the Police Priority Dispatch System (PPDS v7.0) represents a significant leap forward in this regard, introducing several key updates designed to address the needs of Emergency Communications Centers all over the world. This post explores the standout features of PPDS v7.0 that distinguish it from previous versions, offering a broad overview of its new capabilities.

More than 200 User-Suggested Changes

PPDS v7.0 is the most user-updated version of the police protocols yet. It features implementation of over 200 user-suggested changes which were gathered from professionals who use the system daily. By listening to these users, Priority Dispatch has created a system that is not only more intuitive but also better aligned with the real-world challenges faced by Emergency Communications Centers. These changes include refinements to existing protocols, enhancements in user interface design, and improved functionality that makes the system easier to use and more effective in critical situations.

Over 290 Jurisdictionally Approved Questions and Instructions

PPDS v7.0 has significantly expanded its database to include over 290 Jurisdictionally Approved Questions and Instructions (JAQs and JAIs). These JAQs and JAIs can be toggled on or off by local leadership to ensure that the most relevant information from callers is gathered, tailored to the specific needs of the community. 

These enhancements allow for greater precision in data collection, enabling Emergency Police Dispatchers to provide law enforcement with the exact information they need to respond effectively to each situation. The result is a more reliable and consistent communication flow between communications centers and law enforcement, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient operations.

Expanded OMEGA Determinants

PPDS v7.0 also features significantly expanded OMEGA determinants. These determinants are crucial for handling non-urgent or low-priority calls, enabling alternative responses that do not necessitate the immediate deployment of law enforcement resources. By streamlining the process for managing these calls within the ProQA workflow, the system reduces the strain on communications centers, particularly those struggling with staffing shortages. This enhancement helps ensure that high-priority incidents receive the attention they need without unnecessary delays, while also improving overall dispatch efficiency.

Customizable Critical Emergency Information in ProQA

Customization is at the heart of the latest updates to the PPDS, particularly with the new ability to customize Critical Emergency Information (CEI) within the ProQA system. This feature allows communications center leaders to define specific information types to populate directly in ProQA based on the Chief Complaint. 

Whether it’s history checks for specific locations or predefined responses for certain types of incidents, this customization ensures that Emergency Dispatchers are equipped with the most relevant and context-specific information. This not only enhances the accuracy of the dispatch process but also improves officer and scene safety.

An Expanded CADE Tool

One of the most practical enhancements in PPDS v7.0 is the expanded Critical Apprehension Description Essentials (CADE) Tool. First introduced in PPDS v6.2, the CADE Tool was developed in response to the needs of police agencies for a faster way to relay essential descriptions during high-acuity, low-frequency events. In PPDS v7.0, this tool has been further refined to ensure that dispatchers can capture critical details—such as suspect descriptions or vehicle information—immediately upon receiving a call.

The CADE Tool is particularly valuable in situations where timing is critical, such as during robberies, abductions, or shootings. It automatically launches in ProQA when certain high-priority Determinant Codes are selected, enabling the Emergency Dispatcher to quickly gather and relay vital information to law enforcement officers in the field. This rapid communication can make a significant difference in the outcome of such incidents, improving the chances of apprehending suspects and increasing the safety of officers and the public.

PPDS v7.0 is a testament to the power of user-driven innovation in emergency communications. By incorporating over 200 user-suggested changes, expanding jurisdictionally approved questions, enhancing OMEGA determinants, introducing customizable CEI, and refining the CADE Tool, this version of PPDS sets a new standard for dispatch systems. For communications centers, adopting PPDS v7.0 means more efficient, accurate, and safer operations, ultimately leading to better outcomes for law enforcement and the communities they serve.