In response to the lack of uniform training, standardization, and quantifiability of the latent fingerprint examination process, National Institute of Justice-supported researchers William Chapman and R. Austin Hicklin of Noblis developed ACEware. This software provides a dataset-based training platform for new latent print examiners and standardized data management capabilities that can be used in actual casework.
ACEware builds on the Federal Bureau of Investigation Criminal Justice Information Service Division’s existing Universal Latent Workstation (ULW) system, which includes tools to mark up and compare latent print images, as well as conduct print searches on the Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems. The added ACEware functionalities will offer a more standard method for latent print examination and help decrease the risk of false or missed identifications.
ACEware’s added capabilities include:
- Dataset-based training that is either led by an instructor or “self-led” by the student;
- Dataset creation and management processes that can set relationships between all files contained within a dataset, enabling “standard specification for friction ridge datasets”;
- Comparison or consolidation of the markups of a single latent print by multiple examiners; and
- The ability to perform blind or non-blind verifications within the ULW system.
Read more about ACEware and access a detailed report that describes the development and capabilities of the software.