Policy Text
University of California, San Francisco
Police Department General Orders
1
1.5 Direction
1.5.7 Agency Communication and Cooperation (Revised: 7/18/18)
The Police Department encourages and supports the exchange of information among all agency
functions and personnel for the purpose of coordinating activities. There are a number of ways
to communicate information. Listed below are some of the effective communication methods:
A. Verbal communication is either telephonic or face -to-face. This is an informal method
of exchanging information and ideas. It provides immediate opportunity for response and
feedback.
B. Written communication is the most formal method of communication and a record of
what is being transmitted. This form of communication should be used when
documentation is necessary.
C. Video, slide or overhead presentations should be used when audiences are intended to
receive the same information. This form of communication leaves a documented
account of the information disseminated.
D. Departmental staff meetings allow different units and individual persons to give account
of activities occurring or upcoming events. Employees are encouraged to discuss issues
and share information.
E. Electronic mail is a form of communication which allows messages to be automatically
passed from one computer user to another, often through computer networks and/or via
modems over telephone lines. Police Department personnel that have access to e -mail
are encouraged to use it as a form of communication.
F. Supervisor’s Log provides watch commanders and officers with information on incidents
that occurred during a shift, and allows the Department a permanent record. This
information can be used at shi ft briefings.
G. Be on the look out (BOLO) is used for all types of communications, including , but not
limited to , line-up information, wanted persons, training notifications, schedule changes
and events.
H. Police Department employees are directed t o cooperate fully with other employees of this
agency when asked for input, assistance, and ideas or information that would improve the
overall operation and efficiency of the agency.