Interpreters are extremely important in the judicial system, and they are increasingly in high demand. Costs for interpreter services continue to rise in courtrooms across the country, but technology is helping cut those costs while improving quality of life for the interpreters themselves.

Orange County is currently using a Cisco Connected Justice solution for Florida’s first high-tech interpreter system. The system instantly connects interpreters to 67 courtrooms through high definition, live, interactive video. From their desks, interpreters have the ability to control camera angles and audio levels in the courtroom, speak directly to any of the parties participating in a hearing and can appear in real-time on a monitor in the courtroom. Read More »

Tags: connectedjustice, Courts, courttech, ecourts, govtech, video conference, videoconferencing

When it comes to using cutting-edge mobile video technology, Arkansas is blazing the trail for state and local governments.

In the process of developing a network to support data, voice, and video communication services, the state plans to integrate mobile devices into this system beginning this month (February, 2012). According to Government Technology, Arkansas state leaders want to improve public service by embracing what they see as a shift to “a more mobile environment.” Read More »

Tags: broadband, govtech, telework, video conferencing, videoconferencing

The city of West Palm Beach, Florida, is on to something.

The popular tourist destination, and home to 100,000 residents, has embarked upon its own digital revolution of sorts. In an effort to develop business, bring digital communication to the underserved, and make its citizens feel more connected to the local government, West Palm Beach has pulled out nearly all the technological stops.

To bridge the digital divide between wealthy and impoverished populations, the city has installed free Wi-Fi in many public places, including its famous waterfront and the public library. Two Youth Empowerment Centers now include audio/visual recording labs to encourage teens’ multimedia skills and interests. Additionally, in terms of constituent outreach, a planned “Tele-Town Hall” will enable residents to connect with city officials via phone, local television, and social media.

So what more could West Palm Beach do to optimize its technological prowess? Add more telepresence… Read More »

Tags: braodband, Cisco, digital communities, florida, government technology, govtech, telehealth, telemedicine, TelePresence, video conferencing, videoconferencing