Communications technology firm Zetron has launched an AI-powered Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) system aimed at helping police control rooms cope with rising demand and ageing technology.
The company, which has been a long-time supplier to UK emergency services, said its new Zetron CAD platform integrates call handling, radio, and digital communications into a single interface, allowing operators to manage incidents more efficiently.
More than half of UK police forces already use Zetron’s Cortex telephony and radio solution. According to the announcement, the new CAD system offers a step towards modernised operations without requiring a wholesale replacement of existing infrastructure.
Features include AI-powered natural language processing to assist call handlers in recognising distressed or vulnerable callers, visualisation tools for faster pattern recognition, and geospatial mapping for real-time incident tracking.
The system also supports THRIVE (Threat, Harm, Risk, Investigation, Vulnerability and Engagement) assessments, giving call handlers a fuller picture of prior contact before escalating cases.
“Public safety control rooms are under extraordinary pressure, and operators need technology that lightens the load, rather than adding to it,” said Simon Read, Zetron’s vice president for global portfolio and strategy.
“By bringing every element of the dispatch process into one unified, clear and easy to use workflow, operators can focus on what really matters: assessing threat, harm and risk quickly, deploying the right resources and protecting the public with confidence.”
The company said the platform reduces the need for extensive training, cuts duplication of effort, and improves information flow between call takers, dispatchers and officers. Integration with Records Management Systems also ensures that relevant information is shared quickly across teams.
“The challenges facing UK Police forces are unique – from rising mental health demands to growing expectations for digital engagement,” added Read.
“Our goal is for everyone in the chain to have the same real-time picture, ensuring quicker responses, better safeguarding and stronger outcomes for the communities they serve.”
