Information was gathered by means of a literature review, a group forecasting process that identified trends and events that are likely to affect future work schedules, and interviews with five law enforcement leaders. A small southern California police department was used as a model for developing a strategic plan and transition management strategies. Crucial trends included demands for environmentally protective laws, fuel costs, and employees' desires for shorter work weeks. Potential events include government mandates regarding transportation methods and the mandatory reduction of the 40-hour work week. The most likely scenario is a continuation of the current trend toward making compressed work weeks the standard and a move to the next step: reduced work weeks. In addition, advanced technology will facilitate work at home or other off-site options. To accomplish these changes, management must adopt a new philosophy that supports autonomy and revised performance standards. Figures and 38 references