In the context of program design and individual sentencing decisions, choosing correctional options that work is a three- stage process of constructing the most appropriate disposition for different offenders. It begins with an analysis of the risks, stakes, and needs presented in any particular case to identify the kinds of reparative, preventive, or retributive concerns that may be indicated. The second step is to match compensatory, punitive, treatment, or incapacitative techniques from a general menu of known alternatives. This is followed in stage 3 by selection from corresponding specific options available in the jurisdiction involved. The third stage requires clear and reliable descriptive and evaluative information about possible alternatives. One table in this chapter summarizes the general range of sanctioning techniques used by sentencing authorities at stage 2 of the process. Another table presents a tool for decisionmakers who must choose among contending correctional options. The approach uses the principles of rational decisionmaking. The rational assessment model involves specifying decision goals; defining decision options; developing information to assess the relative merit of each option; and selecting, according to articulated decision rules, the options thought to be most congruent with the stated goals. 4 notes