Our lives are run by technology that makes daily life easier and more efficient. From smartphones to smart devices that continuously track our health or fitness goals, these innovations have become a natural part of our everyday life.
These same technologies that help millions better manage their daily lives are creating new possibilities in community corrections, making supervision more streamlined and supportive for everyone.
Legislative Standards Now in Focus
Research from the National Institute of Justice outlines the effectiveness of various monitoring methods, while emphasizing the need for discretion and sensitivity.
This understanding is reflected in recent legislation. For example, Hawaii’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is expanding its electronic monitoring program, with specific requirements for less intrusive monitoring options. In Illinois, new legislation is modernizing electronic monitoring requirements to address privacy and discretion concerns.
Such legislative changes reflect a growing need for electronic monitoring technology that balances effective supervision and supports client success. Choosing the proper monitoring solution requires a clear understanding of each solution’s technological strengths and limitations.
Bluetooth vs. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE): Different Technologies for Different Solutions
At first glance, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) might seem like another iteration of Bluetooth, but the differences between them are profound and impactful, especially for community corrections. Knowing the differences enables agencies to choose technology that best supports their program goals.
How BLE and Bluetooth Serve Different Needs
- Fundamental Differences: Traditional Bluetooth is designed for continuous data transmission, which can lead to higher energy consumption. In contrast, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is optimized for ultra-low power consumption, making it ideal for devices that require reliable operation without frequent recharging.
- Precision and Efficiency: Traditional Bluetooth maintains a constant connection, which is suitable for streaming data. BLE, on the other hand, transmits short bursts of data, allowing for more precise tethering and location capabilities than technologies using time-based location tracking.
- Ideal for Combined Solutions: BLE technology excels in creating a reliable tether between a smartphone and a wearable device. The wireless tether enables the system to confirm both the client’s location and identity. Its low-energy usage eliminates the need for recharging the device, reducing the burden on clients, while facilitating a smoother integration into their daily routines.
The newest electronic monitoring solution from BI Incorporated combines two powerful tools—BI SmartBAND™ 1.0 and the BI SmartLINK® app—to create a comprehensive supervision system that prioritizes security, reliability, visibility, and communication.
BI SmartBAND 1.0: Low Profile Technology to Enhance Accountability
Through cross-device intelligence, the BI SmartBAND 1.0 system meets the need for discreet, location tracking, while aligning with ongoing legislative efforts as highlighted in the Vera Institute studies.
Beyond that, research reveals clothing, including body-worn technology, can profoundly influence self-perception which can lead to a change in behavior and better compliance. BI SmartBAND 1.0 features a contemporary design similar to many wearable devices. This sleek appearance helps clients maintain a low profile, enabling them to go about their day without feeling defined by their supervision.
With BI SmartBAND 1.0, supervising officers benefit from:
- The only location tracking solution on the market with both strap and proximity tampers that pairs with a comprehensive app
- Multi-factor authentication that assures officers of a client’s proximity and location to their smartphone
- Near real-time alerts of zone violations, tampers, and if location services are disabled, ensuring prompt intervention
- Direct, two-way communication via the app, reducing the need for in-person check-ins
- Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology for efficient and reliable operation
Individuals under community supervision benefit from:
- A monitoring solution that blends seamlessly with daily life
- Subtle alerts through vibrations and LED light indicator, preserving privacy
- Six-month battery life, eliminating the need for charging
- Comfortable, hypoallergenic materials tailored for all-day wear
- Water-resistant features to ensure durability for demanding work environments
- Access to resources, task management, and support through the SmartLINK app
BI SmartLINK: The Power of Mobile App Monitoring
Agencies use SmartLINK to simplify communication with clients and provide them with access to supervision information, so they feel prepared and motivated to comply with their conditions of release. Communication tools include:
- Biometric check-ins with liveness detection technology
- Secure text messaging with single-button translation
- Notification reminders
- Video conferencing
- Client access to their supervision calendar and community resources
As part of the BI continuum of location tracking, the BI SmartBAND 1.0 system offers a seamless, cost-effective solution to improve supervision outcomes.
For more information, download the SmartBAND 1.0 fact sheet or contact us to schedule a product demo.