This publication provides information on NIJ's objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge and tools to enhance the administration of justice and public safety. NIJ's goals are: to increase the Nation's capacity to prevent and control crime; to improve the fair administration of justice; to reduce the impact of crime on victims as well as hold offenders accountable; and to increase understanding of justice issues while developing successful interventions. NIJ's strategic goals are explained through six sections describing: how NIJ works by determining what practitioners need; an historic timeline depicting NIJ programs; the DNA initiative which improves the use of DNA in the criminal justice system; the tools and technology which develop voluntary minimum performance standards for public safety equipment; the research studies, program assessments, and evaluations that examine policy success, technologies, and programs whose effectiveness can be demonstrated; and scientific integrity to ensure that the institute funds only the highest caliber research.