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Internets, Extranets, Futurenets

NCJ Number
170704
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 59 Issue: 5, Orlando Convention issue Dated: (August 1997) Pages: 74-78,148
Author(s)
K Becker
Date Published
1997
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes effects on corrections of emerging technologies and the information age.
Abstract
The Internet has not yet had a significant impact on the way correctional agencies operate, in part because it may have limited use in the administration of correctional programs and facilities, and in part because correctional administrators historically have been slow to recognize, develop and invest in new technologies. In addition, funding constraints, political controversies and unstable operating environments of many correctional departments may have inhibited the use of advanced technology. Future developments of this technology may hold comparatively more promise: (1) sharing information and research on the Internet; (2) developing Intranets to provide access to applications and data manipulation to users within a single organization and Extranets to facilitate data sharing across organizational boundaries; (3) expanded access; (4) real-time access; and (5) improved services. Correctional agencies are beginning to face competition from the private sector in the services they provide, and intensified pressure to perform in a more efficient, cost-effective manner. If Internet- and Extranet-based technology holds the promise of reducing operating costs, government agencies will confront unprecedented pressure to adopt this new technology in order to preserve their existence.