NCJ Number
138191
Date Published
1991
Length
30 pages
Annotation
The California Department of Corrections (CDC) has developed and implemented an integrated information-sharing system for institutions that includes inmate housing, classification, assignments, and trust accounting.
Abstract
The system is called the Distributed Data Processing System (DDPS) and operates using Hewlett-Packard 3000 minicomputers. At least one computer is located at each institution. All computer programs are maintained and new programs are developed at the central office in Sacramento by dedicated project teams. The project team concept maximizes efficiency by eliminating duplication at each institution and encourages standardization since all facilities use an identical operating system and maintain data in the same format. When inmates arrive at a reception center, they are assigned a unique number, which serves as the key to all information the DDPS keeps about them. The Inmate Roster Classification System determines the inmate's work availability and assigns the inmate to a work group. The Inmate Job Assignment System uses personal data from the roster system and job information entered in the Inmate Job Assignment System. The Inmate Trust Accounting System uses the roster system to establish accounts for new inmates. The Inmate Roster Movement System is a key application of the DDPS. It is used to document inmate arrivals, departures, and internal movement. Procedures for using the DDPS are detailed. 7 illustrations