Compstat is a system that allows police to begin to track crime incidents soon after they occur. The data system collects and stores information on the features of the crime, the victim, the time when the crime occurred, and other information that enables officials to identify emerging crime patterns. The result is a computer-generated map that shows where and when crime is occurring throughout the city. Crime analysts can then quickly identify trouble spots and target resources to those areas based on a planned strategy. Compstat has another element designed to ensure that strategies designed to counter crime in various precincts are well-planned, are implemented as planned, and are having the results intended. The city's 76 precinct commanders and top departmental management personnel meet weekly to review the computer-generated crime data, develop new ways to counter crime in specific locations, and review existing efforts to address crime in the various precincts. Essential to the Compstat process are continual follow-up and assessment of results. Building on the community policing orientation, a variety of interested parties, who range from school safety officials to prosecutors, are invited to participate in the meetings in order to help plan comprehensive and targeted responses in crime-ridden areas. The Compstat management process has produced a quantifiable and significant reduction in crime and a consequent improvement in the quality of life for residents of previous high-crime areas. 1 table and 42 references