(Washington, DC) Office of Unified Communications Director Karima Holmes today convened the department’s first “State of the Agency” address among employees at the Unified Communications Center in Southeast. Designed to socialize OUC’s two-year strategic plan among stakeholders, the event drew conversation about the agency’s current status and plans for the future.

“We are on a solid path to build a world class call center,” said Director Holmes, who pointed to dramatically increased training and continued innovation in the use of technology as catalysts for moving the agency forward.

The agency’s strategic plan, spearheaded by Chief of Staff Arrelle Anderson, illustrates six key focus areas: Qualified & Engaged Staff, Customer Service & Citizen Engagement, Strong Partnerships, Continuous Training, Balanced Technology, and Proper Governance. Incorporating the theme, “We Answer The Call”, Anderson said the strategic plan will guide the agency as it evolves over the next months and years.

Holmes said the success of the department depends on ongoing, quality training, and she indicated the agency’s new Professional Standards Division has devoted more than 30,000 hours of training for individuals this year. “Training is key as we continue building an inclusive, professional agency dedicated to public safety,” she said.