Victim Services: Moving VRA Info from Print to Digital
90% of Americans own a Smartphone. . .

Episode/Blog Transcript

In today's technologically advanced world, giving victims of crime the option to access their victim rights and resources information conveniently through their smartphones is something to seriously consider. Mobile devices have become an integral part of our daily lives, ensuring immediate access to crucial information. By enabling victims to retrieve this important documentation using their smartphones, we promote a more efficient, cost-effective and user-friendly experience during a time of distress and vulnerability.

Being digital in nature, apps make it is easier for victims to stay updated on their legal rights, know what resources are available for assistance, and understand the necessary steps they need to take towards recovery.

This level of instant communication can provide a sense of security and reassurance to victims, knowing that they are always connected to the resources and support they need. In a stressful situation, it is easy for one to misplace the printed materials that may be provided by law enforcement. Overall, embracing mobile technology in the realm of victim rights and resources is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals who have experienced crime.

According to recent studies and projections, the statistics for mobile phone use for browsing and accessing information in 2023 in the USA are indicative of a significant shift towards mobile-centric behavior. It is estimated that approximately 90% of Americans owned a smartphone in 2023, reflecting an astonishing increase from the already high adoption rates seen in previous years. As a result, it is projected that mobile phones will become the primary device for accessing information and browsing the internet, surpassing traditional methods such as printed information, desktop computers or tablets.

It is key to find efficient cost-saving measures without compromising your service levels. By embracing technology and transitioning from traditional printed brochures to information-rich apps, you can achieve significant cost savings. Costs associated with designing, printing, and distributing physical brochures can be reduced significantly. This includes expenses such as graphic design fees, printing materials, storage space, and postage fees for mailing them out.

Additionally, apps allow for real-time updates and edits that are immediately available to users without the need for re-printing or re-distributing brochures. Overall, supplementing printed brochures (you will always have a need for a few printed brochures) with an informative app allows you to achieve considerable cost savings while maintaining an effective means of communicating information to the victims you serve. Furthermore, apps enable victims to gather knowledge beyond what print materials can offer. Such as interactive elements like hyperlinks and multimedia content which enhance engagement and comprehension. As technology continues to evolve rapidly and connectivity becomes increasingly accessible, it is evident that accessing information online via the smartphone will continue to grow at an exponential rate.

In summary, mobile usage continues to surge, it is expected that businesses across various industries (including law enforcement) will need to adapt their strategies to meet the demands of an increasingly mobile-dependent population.

Does your department have a plan for moving your VRA information to digital (not just a webpage)? Have you looked at various tactics and strategies to add digital to your Victim Services toolkit? Need assistance? We would be happy to help.

Barry C. Donovan is Founder of Visible Digital Solutions LLC (VDS). VDS provides eVAC Custom Digital Victim Advocacy Cards (Victim Rights Cards) and eBrochures for Law Enforcement & DA Victim Services in five states. In 2023, over 6,000 victims of crime accessed their VRA information and resources via VDS's eVAC cards. Want to learn more? We will share specific case histories as to how these agencies seamlessly integrated the latest technologies to reduce waste, increased accessibility to information that is always current and saved funds on printed materials. Send Barry a message to set up a call.

BTW, if you are a business that wants to reduce print costs on rack brochures or "take one" brochures at point of sale, reach out to us. . . we can create ebrochures for you that will save $$$ and increase retention!

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