FACULTY OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION
MANAGEMENT
BACHELOR IN BUSINESS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
UNIT: BBIT-
PROGRAMMING PROJECT
TITLE: FORENSIC MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
(IMPLEMENTATION)
BY: MUNA ABDIRAHMAN DAMEY
ADM - 20/01387
EMAIL: [email protected]
SUPERVISOR:
SEPT-DEC 2023
This implementation is submitted IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS OF the
award of BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY in KCA University.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction............................................................................................................... 3
Purpose........................................................................................................................ 3
Assumptions and Constraints........................................................................................... 3
2. Oversight................................................................................................................... 4
3. Major Tasks and Schedule............................................................................................ 4
Implementation Method.................................................................................................. 4
4. Security and Testing.................................................................................................... 5
Security........................................................................................................................ 5
Development and Testing................................................................................................. 6
5. Resource Needs........................................................................................................... 6
Hardware..................................................................................................................... 6
Software....................................................................................................................... 6
Training....................................................................................................................... 7
Outstanding Issues......................................................................................................... 7
6. Rollout and Maintenance.............................................................................................. 7
7. Glossary.................................................................................................................... 8
1. Introduction
Purpose
Forensic management system is a software application that helps law enforcement agencies manage and
access forensic-related work. The aim of this system is to manage the large volumes of data that are
produced in the process of solving crimes by the application of scientific methods and modern technology.
The system will be able to store specific information in categories such as crime scene photographs, details
about any firearms used, all the fingerprint and DNA evidence, etc. Fingerprint data and DNA data can be
sent to the concerned laboratory from this system and the results can be viewed on the same. All detective
notes will also have to be entered on this system. In the event that a detective has to cooperate with other
departments, this system can be used to easily collaborate on case files, temporary user profiles can be
created if the other department does not implement this system. An important feature of this system will be
its search feature. Repeat criminals generally repeat their modus operandi and there may be other
similarities in cases that can be exploited for quickly solving cases. Since the system forces all case files to
be stored in a uniform format it will be easy detectives to search old case files for similarities in cases.
Security of work and accountability is important to curb corruption in the police force. This system will
automatically log all user activity, regardless of officer rank, in a secure read-only file. Case files once
created by an officer can only be edited by the officers or detectives in charge of the case.
Assumptions and Constraints
Assumptions
A forensic management system operates on several key assumptions. The first assumption is that
the system is not merely a software tool, but a comprehensive solution that encompasses various
aspects of forensic science. This includes data collection, analysis, and interpretation, all of which
are integral to the investigative process. The system assumes that the data entered into it is accurate
and reliable, as the results of forensic investigations heavily depend on the quality of the input data.
This assumption extends to the belief that the users of the system, such as forensic scientists and
investigators, have the necessary skills and knowledge to use the system effectively. They should
be able to input data accurately, interpret results correctly, and make informed decisions based on
these results. Lastly, the system assumes a high level of security, capable of protecting sensitive
data from unauthorized access or tampering. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the data
and the credibility of the forensic investigation.
Constraints
Despite its benefits, a forensic management system also faces several constraints. One of the
primary constraints is resource-related. The implementation and maintenance of the system require
significant resources, including time, money, and personnel. This can pose a significant barrier for
smaller organizations or those with limited resources. The system also requires ongoing training for
users to ensure they can effectively use the system and interpret the results. This training needs to
be updated regularly to keep pace with advancements in forensic science and technology. Legal
and ethical guidelines also pose constraints on the system. These guidelines can limit its
functionality or usage, and non-compliance can lead to legal repercussions and damage to the
organization’s reputation. Finally, like any system, it is subject to technical issues, such as software
bugs or hardware failures. These issues can impact its performance and reliability, and they require
regular monitoring and maintenance to address.
2. Oversight
An oversight within forensic management systems lies in the potential vulnerability
of the digital infrastructure supporting crucial investigative processes. As technology
continues to advance, forensic teams increasingly rely on digital platforms to store
and analyze vast amounts of sensitive data related to criminal investigations.
Unfortunately, the oversight often stems from inadequate cybersecurity measures
and a lack of comprehensive protection protocols. Failure to prioritize robust security
measures within these systems can expose critical information to unauthorized
access, tampering, or even cyberattacks. The consequences of such oversights are
profound, as compromised forensic data not only jeopardizes ongoing investigations
but also raises concerns about the integrity of evidence presented in court.
Addressing this oversight is essential for maintaining the trustworthiness and
reliability of forensic management systems in the face of evolving digital threats.
3. Major Tasks and Schedule
Implementation Method
The Implementation Methods used to implement the forensic management system are:
Requirements gathering
Identifying the requirements of the forensic management system .
Design
Based on the requirements, design the system architecture, database schema, user interface, and
workflow diagrams.
Development
Develop the system using a programming language and database management system. The system
can be developed as a web-based application or a desktop application.
Testing
Test the system to ensure it meets the requirements and functions correctly. Testing should
include unit testing, integration testing, and acceptance testing.
Deployment
Deploy the system to the production environment, which can be on-premises or cloud-based.
User training
Train the users on how to use the system. This can be done through training sessions, user
manuals, or online tutorials.
Maintenance
Maintain the system by fixing bugs, upgrading the system, and adding new features.
4. Security and Testing
Security
Forensic management systems handle a wide range of data, including investigative background
information, excavation data of burial sites, antemortem data on missing persons, and
postmortem data on the remains of unidentified individuals. This data is often sensitive and
requires a high level of protection. Therefore, these systems must be equipped with advanced
security features such as encryption, access controls, and audit trails to ensure data integrity and
confidentiality.
Moreover, the security of a forensic management system is not just about protecting the data it
contains, but also about ensuring the reliability and authenticity of the data. This is particularly
important in the context of legal proceedings, where the admissibility of forensic evidence can
hinge on the ability to demonstrate that the data has not been compromised or tampered with.
In addition to these technical measures, a secure forensic management system also requires a
strong security culture among its users. This includes regular training on security best practices,
adherence to strict security protocols, and a commitment to maintaining the confidentiality and
integrity of forensic data.
However, despite these measures, no system can be completely immune from security threats.
Therefore, a forensic management system must also have robust incident response and recovery
procedures in place to respond to potential security incidents effectively and minimize their
impact.
Development and Testing
During the development phase, interdisciplinary teams comprising software developers, forensic experts,
and cybersecurity specialists collaborate to design a robust system capable of handling diverse types of
forensic data, such as DNA profiles, fingerprints, and digital evidence. The system should also incorporate
features that facilitate seamless integration with various forensic tools and databases.
Thorough testing is essential to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities or flaws in the FMS. This
includes functionality testing to ensure that the system performs its intended tasks accurately and efficiently,
as well as security testing to assess its resilience against cyber threats and unauthorized access.
Compatibility testing is conducted to verify the FMS's ability to integrate with other forensic tools and
databases commonly used in investigative processes. Additionally, usability testing is crucial to assess the
system's user interface and overall user experience, ensuring that it is intuitive and user-friendly for forensic
professionals.
Furthermore, a comprehensive validation process is undertaken to verify the reliability and precision of the
FMS in handling forensic data. This involves comparing the system's results with known standards and
conducting real-world simulations to replicate forensic scenarios. The development and testing phases are
iterative, with continuous feedback from forensic practitioners guiding refinements and improvements.
Ultimately, a well-developed and rigorously tested forensic management system plays a pivotal role in
enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of forensic investigations while maintaining the integrity and security
of sensitive data.
5. Resource Needs
Hardware
● Servers and storage devices to host the forensic management system
● Network devices and cabling to connect the servers and storage devices
● Workstations for employees to access and use the new system
● Backup devices to ensure data integrity and availability
Software
● Forensic management software
● Operating system software for the servers and workstations
● Database software to store data
● Security software to ensure data privacy and protection
● Application software for printing and scanning
Training
● Training sessions for IT staff on system installation, configuration, and maintenance
● Training sessions for staff on system usage
Outstanding Issues
● Compatibility issues between the new system and existing IT infrastructure
● Ensuring proper data migration from the old system to the new system
● Ensuring data privacy and protection.
Implementation Impacts
● The implementation of the new system may cause disruption to existing workflows
● The transition from the old system to the new system may require additional time and
resources
● The new system may require additional hardware and software upgrades to support its
usage
● The implementation may cause temporary system downtime during the installation and
configuration process.
6. Rollout and Maintenance
Criteria for Operationalization
The operationalization of a forensic management system (FMS) hinges on several critical
criteria to guarantee its effectiveness in real-world applications. Foremost, compatibility with
existing forensic tools and databases is paramount, facilitating seamless integration and
interoperability. A user-friendly interface is essential, ensuring that forensic professionals can
navigate the system efficiently, promoting a positive user experience. Scalability is another
crucial factor, allowing the FMS to adapt to the increasing volume and complexity of forensic
data over time. Security measures play a pivotal role in protecting sensitive information, with
robust features such as encryption and access controls necessary to thwart unauthorized access
and cyber threats. Additionally, ensuring data integrity and reliability through validation
processes and adherence to forensic standards is fundamental, establishing the FMS as a
trustworthy tool for forensic investigations.
Metrics for Performance Measurement
Metrics for performance measurement play a pivotal role in the ongoing evaluation and
enhancement of a forensic management system (FMS). Beyond processing speed and data
accuracy, other critical metrics include the system's ability to support collaboration among
forensic professionals, ensuring seamless information sharing and communication.
Quantifying the system's adaptability to emerging forensic technologies and methodologies is
also essential, reflecting its capacity to stay current in a rapidly evolving field. Additionally,
measuring the FMS's compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements
contributes to its reliability and acceptance within the forensic community. Metrics related to
data security, such as the effectiveness of access controls and the frequency of security
incidents, are crucial for safeguarding sensitive information. Regularly assessing user training
and proficiency metrics ensures that forensic professionals can maximize the FMS's
capabilities, promoting continuous improvement and informed decision-making within the
forensic investigation process. Overall, a comprehensive set of performance metrics provides a
holistic view of the FMS's effectiveness, enabling organizations to make informed decisions
about optimization and future developments.
Ongoing Maintenance
Regular system updates and patches to ensure security and performance. Continual monitoring
and improvement of the system based on user feedback and changing needs. Data backups and
disaster recovery plan to ensure continuity of service. Compliance with legal and regulatory
requirements related to forensic management. Ongoing support and training for system users.
7. Glossary
FMS – Forensic Management System.
