The Impact of Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) Information Technology on Communication and Recordkeeping in Patrol Work

The impact of mobile data terminal (MDT) information technology is examined through field research which focuses upon the in-situ uses of the MDT by patrol officers. The impact on patrol officers is reflected in increased proactive work (i.e., traffic) and investigative work not typically the province of patrol, changes in communication patterns between line officers and dispatch and authority relationships with supervisors. The ways in which officers alter and shape their uses of MDT technology to preserve their autonomy, maintain solidarity with their co-workers and manage accountability is analyzed as a form of resistance to the potential of this technology to fragment work assignments and control information.