HOLMES 2 investigation system released

Unisys has joined forces with Autonomy for the release of version 11 of HOLMES 2 (Home Office Large Major Enquiry System), part of the UK police forces’ primary investigation system.

Unisys is using Autonomy for its ability to synchronise critical intelligence and background information sources held in various command applications, effectively breaking down the barriers created by information silos and meeting data sharing requirements outlined in the Bichard report.

The ability to search for information conceptually and not by keyword strengthens the search capabilities. Based on Autonomy’s IDOL technology, the system can also highlight unexpected links between data and auto-cluster critical information to provide insight and analysis beyond that of search; police forces can link phrases with the same meaning, for example a ‘man walking down the street in a red coat’ could be linked to a ‘guy strolling along the road in a pink jacket’ – a link which keyword searches would not pick up.

Mike Lynch, CEO of Autonomy, said: “Meaning-based computing, and its ability to understand the concept and context of information in any format, can fundamentally change the way that professionals work, and is already having a huge impact on investigation, security and surveillance.”

South Yorkshire, Humberside, Staffordshire and Cheshire have already implemented the new HOLMES 2 system.

David Rock-Evans, head of information systems for South Yorkshire Police, said: “In a complex investigation, officers often don’t know what to search for, let alone the exact keywords that will lead them to useful information. Since this technology can point out potential avenues of investigation it will prove invaluable for officers as they face ever more complex cases and more experienced criminals.”