Analytical Investigation Management System (AIMS) is a South African developed software system. It is a fully integrated suite of security management software with modular web-based solutions for case management investigations, and physical security operations. AIMS offers such modules to create a tailor-made security management solution for each customer’s exact needs. In turn, Aims delivers industry’s most leading ease-of-use system.
With the AIMS beneficial features, all case reporters and console users got to be registered to the system for them to be able to report cases, incidents or interact on the AIMS console. Training for the reporters is provided through the videos accessible straight from the system itself just after registering, with in-depth information on how to best use the system. This feature reduces confusion and saves time for the user in learning the system by themselves and further avoids mistakes when the user starts using the system.
The user can submit their cases using any device. Submission of cases can be done on devices such as smart phones and tablets, laptops and PC’s. However, this does not hinder users having devices without that don not have the access to the internet to report cases. These users can call the support center for assistance in submitting cases into the AIMS system. The field support center module allows field support staff to capture these cases on behalf of users.
AIMS enables the user to report the case instantly while incident is still happening. This allows the user to provide the most accurate information as it will be reported whilst the case occurs. GPS co-ordinates are included, photos, audio and videos can also be submitted by the users when reporting a case.
The location map allows users to specify addresses or GPS co-ordinates for locations of interest. These could include client locations, home or business locations of subjects under investigation.
The collaboration of departments to solve cases using the escalate/refer case reduce the turnaround times on case resolutions. Cases are referred by prioritizing location, meaning that if the user reports from Durban, the case will be resolved by urban management. This is because they have more understanding and could easily create a picture in their minds whilst resolving the case due to being familiar with the area of incident.
The drone request module allows users to book either an aerial or aquatic drone for inspections and surveys of cases. Users can either identify a site with a marker on a map, or can Geo-fence a specific area where the drone services are to be deployed. The drone requests are made from within a case, thus binding the drone request to a specific case or incident.
The AIMS software application further provides users with not only a detailed listing of their cases but also reflects the current status of their cases – allowing them to remain informed of the case resolution process.
All AIMS duly registered and authorized personnel have access to the system 24/7 meaning that anywhere and anytime users can report an case, incident or update information, create task and submit any file. Furthermore, this enables all system enhancements and upgrades to be instantly available to all users.
The Case Management Console is the nucleus of the AIMS system where all interactions surrounding individual cases take place. This feature allows the user to get notification via e-mails when there are changes, actions or updates on the case. For example, if the case was referred to another department the user will know these changes instantly.
Should the user wish to review these actions in detail, changes or updates, a link is provided directing the user to the case. AIMS provides options to create different tasks according to the expertise needed on the case which increases the possibility of finding effective solutions. Moreover, the user is not limited to submit a certain number of cases to the system.
This provides summary of people who are involved in the case resolution process and allows for profile viewing and private messaging amongst these users. The user will be able to see who is resolving their case and should it not be resolved they are able to see who is responsible for not resolving their case. This helps the user hold someone accountable for not resolving the case. Also, the user knows who to message directly should they wish to make comments on the case.
The personnel’s working on the case must leave notes after working on the task so that the user can track the progress of their case to know what exactly has been done in attempts. Also for the next person who opens the case to know what actions took place on the case. This feature avoids duplication of work by personnel’s because all stakeholders will be notified about any changes occurring on the case.
The main purpose behind the creation of this system was to replace the use of pen and paper with the use of software to ensure information does not go missing. Due to the need of using paper by other stakeholders, AIMS allow users to print the case details with selected attachments which were attached on the case. For example, should a case needs to reach court level, word information and photos submitted by the user (reporter) on the AIMS system can be printed and used as tangible proof.
In conclusion, the AIMS software was not created to replace jobs done by investigation companies, but rather help them store information safer and manage their style of investigating. Furthermore, as a user you need surety and knowledge of how your case is being resolved and to hold someone accountable should your case remain unresolved.