The Crime Analysis Unit Development Center

If you've been poking around the IACA web site lately, you may have noticed a new feature: the Crime Analysis Unit Development Center (CAUDC).


The CAUDC represents a year's worth of work by three dedicated IACA members--Kirkland, Washington crime analyst Kristina Shull; Redmond, Washington crime analyst Craig Werre; and IACA Technology Director Jim Mallard--plus the many of you who contributed examples, products, and profiles. This comprehensive resource is meant for crime analysis units at all stages of development, from those agencies wondering "what is crime analysis?" to experienced analysts looking for training, literature, or a new job. Its features answer many of the common questions that agencies ask when developing a crime analysis program, including:

• How many analysts does my department need?
• What should the job posting include?
• Where should we advertise the position?
• What questions should we ask candidates during the interviews?
• What types of products should our analysts issue?
• How do we measure analytical performance?

Among the most enjoyable features of the CAUDC are the profiles located under the "Meet an Analyst!" link. These profiles offer practical insights into the day-to-day realities of crime analysis and serve as an invaluable resource for police administrators, students, and anyone unfamiliar with a crime analyst's job.



We unveiled the CAUDC at the IACP conference in October, but we have been making incremental updates and improvements since then. We believe it is now ready for widespread dissemination and use. Do you know an agency looking to develop a crime analysis capability? Point them to the CAUDC! Are you looking to improve your own skills and processes? Check out the resources for ideas and guidelines.

Most important, please give us your feedback on the CAUDC. We want to know what is and is not useful--and what your ideas are for improving this resource. You can use the IACA contact form or send an e-mail to caudc@iaca.net.

I am confident that the CAUDC represents a major step forward for the IACA and the crime analysis profession, and I hope you'll join me in thanking Kristina, Craig, and Jim for the extraordinary effort they made in assembling these resources and designing the site.

Sincerely,

Christopher W. Bruce
President
International Association of Crime Analysts