Graffiti Database, The Myth and the Lies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) March 31, 2010 --

There are only a handful of graffiti databases currently available, and even less if you look at those that are 100% web-based where data can be shared with other users. Some of these databases charge tens of thousands of dollars to use, others try to only cover the expenses of having a web based system because they feel it is in the interest of the public to offer a cheap way to help collect the data and thus help reduce graffiti. Some of these companies try to claim that if you use their database, your graffiti problem will be reduced by using it. This is pure fantasy! A database in itself is a simple array of program data that is completely worthless, unless you have staff to use it. The more dedicated staff you have, the better the database becomes, and this alone is the reason you see a reduction of graffiti in areas that have a graffiti database in use. It is the hard working staff of data collection, removal and abatement, courts, Law Enforcement, and data input clerks that are the sole reason you have a real graffiti abatement program.

Now for cost, the cost vary immensely depending on which company you go with, tens or thousands down to less that $1000 per year. Some only track graffiti, another will track over 30 different crimes. Most all use Google mapping to plot incidents, but why spend tens of thousands when you can do more with a cheaper program? Who knows the reasons some cities fail to do the research, they jump into it because the high priced systems can afford to market it, but a simple Google search will let you find out the details, but watch for those that hide their cost unless you contact them directly.

Cities are strapped for funds, so why spend so much when you can get more for less, well let me explain what happens.... A city uses a grant writer to get funds from the federal government to pay for it, so you and I foot the bill, but then what happens when the grant money runs out? this is the hidden portion that these companies will not disclose. When the federal money runs out, there is no way for a city to cover the cost of the system, so it dies. All the data that you and I paid for is used by the database company to try and show others, but in the city that needs it, they no longer have access to it unless they pay a huge fee that they simply can not afford.

So why not use a cheaper database, it actually does a lot more, one of these only cost the city $850 per year with unlimited use, plus the company will let them try it for a whole year, free of charge. Seems to be a simple decision, but many cities keep spending your tax dollars on inferior systems, Why?

We ask that cities only do their homework, do the research and shop around, see what is offered before wasting our tax dollars.

More information can be found online at http://www.nograffiti.com

     graffiti     graffiti database