QUANTICO, Va. -- The Office of Special Investigations has successfully implemented its new case management system to revolutionize operational activities and investigations management, according to the agency’s top civilian leader.
Known officially as the OSI Records, Investigations & Operations Network (ORION), the system was first deployed to users in March 2023 with the objective of enhancing data management, improving real-time communication, and streamlining case processing activities, said Pearl Mundt, OSI’s executive director.
Development of ORION began in late 2020 as part of OSI's broader strategy to modernize technology and enhance user experience, focusing on a transformative approach rather than a mere rewrite.
“ORION is set to fundamentally transform OSI's operations and data management,” said Special Agent Justin Soderlund, ORION program manager. He added the program's integration of cloud computing, digitization, and data integration as aligned with modernization efforts across the Department of Defense.
According to Soderlund, this transformation signifies more than a software upgrade; OSI is redefining its case management approach to stay ahead of technological trends and emerging threats.
In addition to the implementation of new technology, Special Agent Les Bernys, OSI's Chief Information Officer and Director of IT Services and Solutions, said ORION was, “OSI’s first system to utilize the Adaptive Acquisition Framework, progress through the Business Capability Acquisition Cycle (BCAC), and work with a Program Executive Office (PEO).”
Looking forward, he highlighted plans for deploying ORION on classified networks and continuing to further enhance the system.
Feedback on ORION has been positive, Mundt said during a recent all-call, highlighting praise for its user-friendly interface and improvements in handling complex investigations. She added OSI’s commitment to improving and refining ORION through real-time feedback to streamline investigations and enhance accessibility.
“As ORION continues to evolve, user feedback has focused on enhancing the interface, system speed, and overall user experience,” Mundt said.
To ensure proficiency among all personnel, OSI has implemented a comprehensive training program, including courses and tutorials integrated at the U.S. Air Force Special Investigations Academy in Glynco, Georgia, to prepare new agents upon graduation.
“This is only the beginning,” Soderlund said. “The system will continue to improve and expand in the weeks, months and years ahead.”