Netsight were selected to develop a Document and Content Management System and a number of public websites for Warwickshire Police. Working closely with their publications department and their e-communications team, Netsight have built a fully web-based system that helps them meet their obligations under the Freedom of Information Act.

The system is based on Plone, an open source content management system that requires no licensing fees. A variety of content types including documents, web pages, images, FAQs, press releases, job adverts and feedback forms can be managed through the web interface and the integrated workflow system has been tailored to the client's requirements, with extensions to allow the editing and resubmission for approval of almost all content. The information is tagged with metadata (under the publication scheme), approved by reviewers and is delivered using the integrated websites.

The content management system controls a number of different websites, all created by Netsight - with each one designed and tailored for specific audiences. Secure portals for special interest groups such as Neighbourhood Watch and Special Constables are also included.

The range of sites operated by Warwickshire Police (and created by Netsight) continues to grow as the benefits of using e-communication in policing become more and more apparent. The various sites provide an efficient and effective touch-point between the police and the community.

In addition to the development of the software, Netsight are providing a full hosting, backup and maintenance service. By managing all aspects of the hosting provision for the public sites, we can bring in extra capacity at very short notice. During times of high-profile media attention, our custom-built managed hosting solution can be scaled as necessary, successfully serving loads in excess of 30,000 hits per hour, whilst remaining highly cost-effective when demand is lower.