The recent development of Optimation Connect has made waves in Australia by introducing a new era for rehabilitation and case management in the justice sector. Being the first to employ the full Optimation Connect product, Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) has paved the way for a transformative approach to handling individuals under supervision in the community.
Optimation, a trailblazer in digital technology solutions, is in the run for the Best Hi-Tech Solution for the Public Good in the esteemed NZ Hi-Tech Awards 2024, thanks to its pioneering product, Optimation Connect. Designed with an intensive focus on accessibility and inclusivity, Connect aims to improve outcomes for all stakeholders involved by revolutionising community corrections.
The Connect system maximises the connectivity of individuals with their rehabilitation process while altering how community corrections officers carry out case management. Going digital with its procedures and offering self-service options, users can utilise their fingerprint and facial biometrics to access a variety of online services. By offering services such as in-office kiosks, as well as web and mobile phone applications, the product transcends previous barriers associated with digital accessibility in expansive and remote locations.
Building on a well-founded partnership with New Zealand’s Department of Correction and other local public sector agencies, Optimation developed Connect, consequently creating a trusted alliance with QCS. Thanks to a five-year starting agreement in 2023, the solution was implemented across the regional offices of QCS in Queensland. The multi-channel product is accessible to approximately 90% of supervised individuals, helping ensure compliance with supervision orders and boosting teams' efficiency in caseload management.
Warrick Flower, Managing Director at Optimation, stated, “We have built Connect with the aim of delivering tangible benefits to both agencies and supervised individuals.” These benefits are apparent in preliminary results showcasing an estimated 40% improvement in turnout for community work programmes and a 30% increase in punctual attendance for in-person check-ins. Along with these, an approximate 40% decrease in repetitive paper tasks, a 60% reduction in officer appointment times, and a 25% cut in curfew call centre and security call-out costs have also been observed.
Mr Flower explained, "The challenge was to deliver these functions to a diverse group while maintaining security and complying with the law. Connect achieves this and layers other capabilities to become a hub for better rehabilitation journeys." With such innovations, it comes as no surprise that Optimation is a finalist for the prestigious New Zealand Hi-Tech Awards, which honour the country's most successful high-tech businesses across the technology spectrum.
Reflecting on this accomplishment, Neil Butler, Chair of Optimation, said, “Our vision for Connect is to revolutionise the rehabilitation journey. It’s a massive challenge, and it is wonderful to receive this recognition from the NZ Hi-Tech Awards. This achievement is testament to our outstanding team’s hard work, creativity and commitment.” The victors of the 2024 awards will be announced at the NZ Hi-Tech Awards annual Gala Dinner in Auckland on 24 May.