The evaluation reviewed relevant documents, interviewed staff at each reception center and at selected institutions in each region, and conducted manual-files searches to obtain data on 528 inmates. Although the Tennessee Department of Corrections is to be commended for its implementation of the NIC classification model, certain deficiencies have hampered the effective use of the model. Classification goals and objectives have not been developed and clearly articulated to staff, and a functioning classification system is not in place. The adaptation of the NIC model ignores custody issues and reduces the role of classification. Classifications are often based on inadequate information, and the error rates in completing initial classification forms are 30-35 percent. Cut-off points currently used result in too high a proportion of inmates rated as minimum security. For these and other problems, recommendations are offered. 8 tables, 2 figures.