Smartphone, now an investigation device

Smartphones have come a long way from sophisticated handsets with data, video, and voice built in. Today, among other functions, smartphones have become investigative tools as demonstrated by a unique relationship between Sprint and US Investigations Services, Inc. The two companies have teamed up to develop smartphones and applications that help USIS conduct background investigations for the federal government.

USIS is the largest commercial provider of security investigation services to the federal government, a provider of global commercial employment and drug screening solutions, and also a provider of information services to the insurance industry.

Partnering with Sprint, USIS supplies its field staff with Treo PRO by Palm smartphones as part of a program dubbed “iCompass” to increase efficiencies in coordinating case work in a real-time environment.

“Not only does the Treo PRO streamline the investigative work conducted on our current contracts, it lays the groundwork for future opportunities,” says USIS CEO Bill Mixon. “Functions like production control and master scheduling give USIS a tangible advantage when handling its varied contracts. This device provides a single interface for existing case management tools and is scalable for growth.”

With more than 7,000 employees working in all 50 states, U.S. territories and overseas, USIS provides a wide range of comprehensive security-based training, screening, litigation support and information management solutions to government customers. The company says it invests in its workforce and providing employees with the advanced technology and new tools needed to improve performance, including fleet cars, global positioning systems and other productivity tools.