The system analysis approach views the jail as a system of multifunctional processes. The analysis tool brings information from all departments, sections, and facilities together into one comprehensive report to the management team. Prior to the system analysis approach, managers often did not take responsibility for identified problems, since many crossed functional boundaries and fell into the organizational "cracks." System analysis goes beyond mere compliance with mandatory authorities. It looks at policy effectiveness, operational efficiencies, documentation efforts, redundancy, communication breakdowns, and identification of sound correctional practices. By providing a single report to the management team, divisional issues can be readily addressed, and policy changes can be made based upon research and supporting evidence. The following steps are the core of the assessment procedure: select process, define scope, research and review authorities, determine approach/gather information, debrief, informal exit interviews/policy development, and a final report. About once every 3 or 4 months, the Compliance Team is asked to do a special analysis defined by a department manager or deputy director. These have included processes such as visitation, inmate worker assignment, the distribution center operations, and even a local homeless shelter. 1 figure