It is important that the law enforcement agency have confidence that the researcher has an understanding of effective research methods and designs that can produce the data needed on agency practices, procedures, and protocols. The examination of the relevant data must then be done in collaboration with the agency as partners in the effort to understand and improve agency policies and procedures. The agency must perceive that the researcher is not coming into the research with a preconceived expectation about what the data will reveal about the agency's policies, procedures, and outcomes, as well as what changes are needed, but is rather interpreting the data fairly and objectively in interaction with input from agency personnel. In addition, data analysis must result in actions that the agency can take in the short term as well as the long term in improving agency policies and procedures. If improved training is required, then that training should begin as soon as possible. Some needed action should begin even before the study has been completed.