NYPD

The Problem

The NYPD, the largest police force in the United States, relied on the Domain Awareness System (DAS) as a critical tool for managing 911 responses, surveillance, crime statistics, and internal communications. However, the existing system had become outdated, with inefficient workflows, poor usability, and limited scalability. These shortcomings hindered officers’ ability to access and process vital information quickly and effectively in high-pressure situations.

The scope of the challenge was immense. The DAS needed to support diverse user roles, from first responders to analysts, across a vast array of use cases. The goal was not just to update the system but to completely reimagine it, creating a streamlined, intuitive, and scalable solution that enhanced operational efficiency and decision-making.

The Solution

As Creative Lead and Project Manager, I directed a matrixed team of over 15 experts in design, development, architecture, and testing to redesign the DAS. We adopted an agile methodology, emphasizing iterative development and constant collaboration with key stakeholders, including Microsoft executives and NYPD representatives. This ensured the system addressed real-world needs and could adapt to ongoing feedback.

My approach focused on shaping a robust information architecture, developing user-centric workflows for hundreds of use cases, and creating a cohesive UI/UX design. Prototyping and testing were integral to the process, allowing us to refine every element of the desktop application and native mobile app. The final design balanced functionality, visual clarity, and scalability, empowering officers with a tool that enhanced performance and usability.

The Results

The redesigned Domain Awareness System transformed how the NYPD operated. The improved user experience reduced 911 operator response times by 45%, while the enhanced reporting interface led to a 70% improvement in perp report accuracy. Additionally, the new design increased search efficiency by 60%, enabling officers to access critical information faster and more reliably.

Beyond these measurable results, the project demonstrated the power of thoughtful design to solve complex problems and drive meaningful change. By creating a system tailored to the needs of its users, we elevated the department’s ability to serve and protect. This project highlights my ability to lead large-scale initiatives, foster collaboration, and deliver impactful solutions.

* Please note: The designs are limited and have been slightly modified for confidentiality purposes.