Information Technology Division
The Information Technology Division (ITD) provides the District Attorney's Office with technology tools and services. There are 27 employees who are responsible for the design, development, implementation, and support of all information technology hardware, software, business applications, and websites as well as support for prosecution in the courtroom and community outreach efforts. In addition, ITD provides direct support to the City Attorney's Office in their use of the District Attorney's case management system for criminal prosecution.
In 2012, ITD began implementing eDiscovery, a project that enables both the Public Defender's Office and private defense attorneys to retrieve discovery documents electronically thereby reducing paper costs and improving service quality.
The team is responsible for supporting the organization's data network and servers where information and applications are stored and accessed such as data files, email, the DA case management system and the new eDiscovery system. The data network links 10 DA offices and more than 1,400 desktops, laptops, and printers to more than 200 servers and other networks including the County of San Diego, ARJIS, the Sheriff's Department and the Internet.
In 2012, the team finished upgrading all server hardware and software. They also implemented high speed wireless access to all branches and increased secured remote access to applications and data. A mobile device management system was also implemented to secure, manage and monitor mobile devices. In 2013, the team will expand wireless access to all courtrooms used by the DA's Office. The IT team is also working on implementing a new unified communications system to provide instant messaging, Skype integration, and desktop/mobile/web conferencing. Finally the team hopes to continue to enhance the infrastructure with upgrades to key software and hardware systems.
The application development team manages content and design on the DA's public website, which receives thousands of views each week from around the world. In addition, the web team manages the DA's intranet and a growing portfolio of browser-based applications and is researching portal-based solutions to serve our external customers more effectively. The team developed a browser based application that allows Deputy DAs access to the DA's case management system in the courtroom through laptops and tablets.
The support team provides technical assistance to all DA employees via phone, email, self-service portal or on-site service. In 2012, the IT Division resolved more than 8,800 calls for assistance through its service desk. An upgrade of desktop and laptop hardware and software is underway and is expected to provide improved performance, reliability, and security. Other projects include document scanning, technical support for defense counsel using eDiscovery, and a continuous effort to improve computing capabilities and services and to utilize emerging technologies.
