Division of Scientific Services
Bidirectional Interface - A Secure Paperless Process
Introduction
The Division of Scientific Services (DSS), in conjunction with Versaterm (formally JusticeTrax) is developing a bidirectional interface between the DSS's Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and the State Police and local law enforcement agencies Records Management Systems (RMS).
Secure Paperless Process
The interface will provide agencies with an electronic request process of submitting evidence and receiving reports from the DSS. The entire process will be paperless.
- Agencies will start and complete the submission process using their RMS or Portal. All information and paperwork will be securely transmitted to the DSS. Once the evidence is brought to the DSS, all submission receipts will be electronically sent back to the agencies RMS or Portal.
- Any updated or supplemental paperwork can be securely submitted to the lab without the need for additional trips.
- Once analysis has been completed the final reports will automatically be sent to the agencies RMS or Portal.
- Upon the agencies next scheduled appointment, their completed evidence will be returned.
NexGen RMS
The DSS and NexGen are currently working together to develop a bidirectional interface between their Records Management System (RMS) and the lab.
IMPORTANT: NexGen agencies who are not using the Evidence Module need to contact the DSS.
ProPhoenix RMS
The DSS and ProPhoenix are currently working together to develop a bidirectional interface between their Records Management System (RMS) and the lab.
LIMS-plus Portal
Agencies who are not using the NexGen or ProPhoenix RMS will use the Versaterm LIMS-plus Portal.
The DSS will be providing a series of steps and trainings to ensure an agency who will be using Portal can transition to the new process as easily as possible.
Portal can only be accessed through the State of Connecticut's COLLECT system.
Who will be required to use the new paperless bidirectional process?
All agencies that submit evidence to the DSS will be required to use an electronic process.
Once the DSS transitions to the bidirectional interface:
- RFA Forms: Paper Request for Action (RFA) forms will be retired. All submissions must be handled through the electronic interface.
- Receipts: The DSS will no longer issue paper submission or return receipts. Electronic confirmation logs within the system will serve as the official record of receipt.
- Reporting: All DSS reports will be delivered electronically. Physical mailings or hand-delivered reports will be discontinued.
Project Timeline
Go Live
Implementation Timeline: Q3 2026
The transition is not an "overnight" switch for everyone. Instead, it follows a phased rollout strategy to manage technical stability and agency readiness.
| Phase | Timeline | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Current - Q2 2026 | Agencies should begin training staff and updating internal data protocols. |
| Go-Live | Q3 2026 | Initial "wave" agencies transition to the bidirectional interface. |
| Full Adaption | Post Q3 2026 | Phased transition for remaining agencies based on specific assigned dates. |
Next Steps in the Project
Portal Agencies
- Ensure that your agency can connect to the LIMS-plus Portal using the COLLECT network. 4/16/2026
- Setting up Admin Accounts for agencies. (On Deck)
- Learning the roles and responsibilities of the Agency Admin. (Future)
NexGen and ProPhoenix Agencies
NexGen agencies using the NexGen evidence module
- NexGen will reach out to you when they are ready to roll out and train on the new process
NexGen agencies who are not using the NexGen evidence module:
- You will be required to use the Portal. Follow the Portal agencies procedures.
- Or you can work with your Evidence module vendor to create a bidirectional interfaces.
- Contact your Evidence module vendor and Bruce Cranstoun.
ProPhoenix agencies
- ProPhoenix will reach out to you when they are ready to roll out and train on the new process.
Check this page often for on-going communication, Training Materials and Updates.
Bidirectional Project contacts
Bidirectional Project contacts
Bruce W. Cranstoun
Laboratory Information Systems Manager
Email: Bruce.Cranstoun@ct.gov
Phone: 203-694-6543