DNAConnect^®

frequently asked questions

General Overview 

What is DNAConnect®?

DNAConnect is a secure software platform for managing DNA data and laboratory workflows. It is designed to help agencies launch and scale Rapid DNA programs.

Who uses DNAConnect?

DNAConnect is used by forensic laboratories and law enforcement agencies to manage Rapid DNA programs across single agencies or multi-agency networks of any size.

What problems does DNAConnect solve?

It solves the challenges of running a Rapid DNA program by giving forensic service providers tools to oversee operations, track compliance, and coordinate across agencies.

Can DNAConnect be used for disaster victim identification (DVI)?

Yes. DNAConnect has been used successfully in disaster victim identification to compare family reference samples and unidentified human remains.

Technology & Integration 

Can I use DNAConnect with any Rapid DNA instrument?

Yes, it works with both ANDE® and RapidHIT™ ID Rapid DNA systems, as well as legacy data from conventional DNA instrumentation, whether used alone or in mixed systems environments.

Does DNAConnect integrate with CODIS?

DNAConnect does not connect directly to CODIS. Instead, it works with CODIS-compatible files such as .cmf /.xml exports so agencies can manage profiles and support database synchronization.

Can I implement DNAConnect my own agency and add on partners from other agencies in the future?

Yes. DNAConnect is designed for scalable and phased programs. It supports multiple agencies simultaneously, and you can add on new sites and users at any time.

Standards Compliance & Security 

Is DNAConnect CJIS compliant?

It meets CJIS standards with encrypted data transfer and access controls.

How does DNAConnect protect sensitive forensic data?

It uses encrypted transfers, role-based permissions, and full audit logging.

Does DNAConnect support ISO/IEC 17025 and FBI QAS standards?

Yes, it captures data and maintains records for assessments and audits.

Features & Automated Capabilities 

What is Reachback in DNAConnect?

DNAConnect takes flagged profiles and automatically routes them to the Reachback feature, where qualified forensic DNA analysts are alerted that the profile needs evaluation.

Does DNAConnect conduct automated searches of Rapid DNA-generated profiles in its database?

You can configure the software to search ‘green checkmark’ profiles against the internal database automatically or choose to review them before the search.

Does DNAConnect provide automated hit notifications?

Yes. DNAConnect automatically generates an alert when potential matches are found and can generate hit notifications through email or text message according to agency policy.

Can DNAConnect send notifications by text or email?

Yes. DNAConnect can automatically send notifications by email or text message (SMS).

Does DNAConnect generate match reports?

DNAConnect automatically generates investigative lead reports with configurable levels of information.

Can DNAConnect track equipment?

Yes, it can track instrument use and consumables across sites.

Match Confidence & Approach 

How does DNAConnect approach matching?

DNAConnect uses likelihood ratio statistics rather than allele-only stringency-based matching.

What is the benefit of likelihood ratio matching?

Likelihood ratio matching is more informative than simple allele-only matching because it factors in allele rarity.

Does DNAConnect support kinship analysis?

DNAConnect automates kinship analysis by comparing DNA profiles to evaluate biological relationships such as parent–child, siblings, or extended family connections.

Implementation & Use

Do DNAConnect operations require specialized IT support?

No. DNAConnect runs with minimal IT support via secure browser-based access. Program managers and laboratory staff easily manage routine administration and configuration.

Can DNAConnect be customized to a lab’s workflow?

DNAConnect is highly configurable, allowing administrators to tailor case sets, search rules, user role permissions, notifications, and reporting to align with a laboratory’s specific workflows and policies.

What type of training is provided for DNAConnect?

SNA International provides role-based training tailored to administrators, DNA analysts, and operators. Training covers system setup, daily operations, compliance features, and suggestions for managing Rapid DNA programs.

Operational Benefits 

How does DNAConnect improve efficiency?

DNAConnect can bring together multiple DNA technologies to a central place for the management of data and searching. It automates searching and match notifications, and tracks sample and quality assurance information. It streamlines communication between agencies and laboratories, eliminates redundant data entry, and centralizes oversight.

How does DNAConnect improve interagency collaboration?

DNAConnect improves interagency collaboration by enabling secure data sharing, role-based access, and centralized oversight across multiple agencies, ensuring consistency while allowing each agency to contribute to a shared Rapid DNA program.

Can DNAConnect reduce case backlogs?

No. DNAConnect by itself does not reduce backlogs. However, when implemented as a program to augment traditional laboratory processes, it can improve efficiency, maximize resources, and ultimately help lower backlogs by taking the speed of Rapid DNA technology and integrating it into an automated system to search imported databases and alert users of hits.

Program-Level Considerations 

Can DNAConnect support non-lab operators?

Yes. DNAConnect allows non-laboratory personnel to collect forensic samples, enter them into the system for tracking, and operate Rapid DNA instruments under laboratory oversight.

Will DNAConnect still work as standards and technology evolve?

Yes. DNAConnect is built to align with current forensic standards (including FBI QAS and ISO/IEC 17025) and is designed to be updated as requirements change

What makes DNAConnect different from other forensic software?

DNAConnect has no peer — no other platform provides the same combination of program management, compliance support, an algorithmic search approach, and complex kinship analysis.