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Results-Based Management in Federal Probation and Pretrial Services

NCJ Number
225186
Journal
Federal Probation Volume: 72 Issue: 2 Dated: September 2008 Pages: 4-14
Author(s)
John M. Hughes
Date Published
September 2008
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This article describes progress in results-based management and decisionmaking framework in postconviction supervision by Federal probation officers.
Abstract
The goal of results-based management and decisionmaking in postconviction probation supervision is to collect, analyze, and use data from probation officers’ electronic case files and a variety of other sources in order to inform decisionmaking and performance improvement aimed at reducing recidivism and fostering long-term positive changes in those supervised. The Office of Probation and Pretrial Services of the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) has followed three tracks over the past several years in order to become a performance-based system. The first track consisted of two “futures planning” conferences for chief probation and pretrial services officers. The primary outcome of these conferences was agreement by the chiefs on a Charter for Excellence, which lays out a shared understanding of the work of probation and pretrial services officers, the goals that matter most, and the core values of the system. The second track was a broad strategic assessment by a team of independent consultants, which focused on an assessment leading to recommendations intended to ensure the future quality and success of the probation and pretrial services system. This would be achieved through analysis; comparative research on other systems; and broad consultation with outside experts, judges, probation and pretrial services staff, and other stakeholders. The third track involves a collaborative effort by court subject-matter experts, the Federal Judicial Center, and AO staff to improve postconviction supervision policies, including substance abuse and mental health issues. In addition to describing these three tracks, this article also describes the building of the infrastructure for results-based management and decisionmaking, with attention to the development of the methodology and upgrading the technology, and collaboration and communication. 5 figures, 42 notes, and 3 references