Lancashire Police has announced that it will begin broadcasting daily updates on local crime issues directly into people’s homes via their Amazon Echo.
The basic broadcast service outlined by Lancashire Police is a mere indication of the impact AI will have in the security sector. Is this just the first step to fully utilising AI to protect UK citizens?
David Champeaux, director at IPsoft believes that this is just the beginning, and at some point in the near future there will be voice activated devices that are able to handle two-way dialogue for people who may want to report crime or are seeking further guidance on how to keep safe during emergencies.
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This functionality might be powered by AI-enabled virtual agents that can hold conversations with the public, making it much more convenient for individuals to exchange information that will keep themselves and their communities safe.
Budget constraints
With constant budget constraints in the public sector, suggests Champeaux, rapidly evolving AI-enabled virtual agents will simultaneously address access and quality challenges in the system and open the door for a more efficient and effective service to citizens.
For example, “relieving pressure on frontline staff in hospitals and primary care practices by handling routine enquiries through AI-enabled agents translates into more time for doctors and nurses to care for those in need,” said Champeaux.
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“Local government bodies, burdened with the responsibility of providing a huge range of services to local residents, have already started to take advantage of AI’s ability to absorb rising volumes of routine requests. At Enfield Council, for instance, IPsoft’s cognitive virtual agent, Amelia has learned how to guide residents through the complex local planning permission process.”
“The good news for British taxpayers is that AI-enabled agents are set to speed up convenient, reliable access to routine support and information across public sector services and do so affordably.”
