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CD-ROMs best for reference materials . . .
Now most colleagues have computers, I would like to suggest every officer be issued with a CD-ROM containing all the necessary police manuals and Headquarters Orders instead of a large volume of printed copies.
It would be much easier for officers to look up the reference materials on a CD-ROM and they could print the sections needed when necessary. CD-ROMs are cheaper to produce and environmentally friendly compared with printed matter, and they would also encourage colleagues to embrace information technology.
Updated versions of the CD-ROMs could be issued annually. Of course, a certain quantity of hard copies of the reference materials should be produced to cater for those colleagues who do not have a computer.
Ho Kim-sing
Police Constable Platoon Two
On-line distribution more efficient - Training Wing
The Manuals Division of Training Wing has received similar suggestions before and has considered and examined the issue carefully. While we have always been concerned with cost-effectiveness in printing or issuing police manuals, the environmental factor has also become one of our primary concerns.
In view of the present development and needs of our society and the Force, we have to amend the manuals and orders frequently to keep our officers informed of the latest information and procedures as soon as possible. Sometimes, amendments are issued as often as daily, however, it takes a longer time for officers to receive a copy, be it hardcopy or CD-ROM.
The Reference Materials System has come into operation for nearly three years. The System was designed to distribute police manuals and information. Through the terminals of the System or the Police Intranet, officers can immediately access the latest versions of the police manuals updated by the Manuals Division.
With the increasing number of POINT terminals and resource centres at District level, there is currently adequate access for officers. Manpower for amending the hardcopies of manuals as well as the printing cost can be greatly reduced through the on-line distribution of information, which is thus more efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly than issuing hardcopies or CD-ROM. Of course, we will not be complacent, and are still dedicated to improving our services to strive for excellence.
For any inquiries or suggestions on the use of the Reference Materials System, please feel free to contact Chiu Chi-fai, Senior Inspector Manuals, at 2814-4448.
Catherine Kwan Chui-ching
Woman Chief Inspector