Mapping theory to practice: a cartographic analysis of public safety networks

ABSTRACT

This paper provides an interim report on ongoing data collection and analysis efforts as part of a large-scale study of information technology- focused interagency collaborations in the United States public safety sector---collaborations we refer to as public safety networks (PSNs). Of particular interest are shared infrastructures for supporting technological interoperability and interagency interactions involving policing, criminal justice, and homeland security processes. Our research questions focus on explanations for the formation of PSNs and for their design, use, governance, and success. The paper describes our rational choice and institutional theoretical perspectives on PSN formation, ongoing data collection efforts, and map-based visualizations we have developed for data exploration and analysis. Preliminary analyses suggest that our approach is promising for generating insights about PSNs and, by extension, about other types of interorganizational collaborations focusing on information-sharing and the use of information and communication technology.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  J. Computer Applications
  J.1 ADMINISTRATIVE DATA PROCESSING
      Subjects: Government

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
      H.4.m Miscellaneous

General Terms:
Documentation, Measurement, Theory

Keywords:
information and communication technology, institutional theory, interorganizational collaboration, public safety, rational choice theory