One of the most difficult tasks in law enforcement is figuring out a comprehensive approach to what I call “informant lifecycle management.” You hear such terms as “performance lifecycle management” and “product lifecycle management” in the information technology arena, but I think this approach can be used in law enforcement, too – especially since technology can play an important part in the success of confidential informant management.

Let’s face it. Dealing with informants is a necessary evil. Informants aren’t always the most trustworthy people on the planet. Yet, police and other law enforcement officials are constantly working with informants to cull new leads and prevent criminal activity.

Some of the biggest benefits that technology brings to the table for informant management are reduced risks and reduced liability. Using a computerized system helps officers and handlers follow processes. Processes are a good because they drive consistency. Good processes and good technology also help officials capture document payments, contact history, and document considerations offered to informants. Good processes engender formal and proper oversight, too.

Before we dig too much into the technology, however, it’s worth pausing to consider one of the most compelling arguments that law enforcement uses in opposition to automating informant management. They fear that their informants’ identities could be compromised.

However, the “scraps of paper” model isn’t the most secure way of doing things nor does it facilitate connecting the dots on larger criminal investigations. Bottom line – the paper-based system subjects an agency to incredible risks, such as arrangements that go awry, or worse, violate the law.

What’s needed is a system that guides agencies, reduces risks, protects informants’ identities and facilitates search capabilities so intelligence can be analyzed.

It is an area which will become increasingly important as the agency environment becomes increasingly sophisticated. How agencies best manage the confidential informant process and the deployment of successful strategies And best practices is a debate which needs to gather momentum.