To determine if the classification system improved anything in the prisons, six criteria were established to measure the system's utility: confinement of inmates in less secure facilities; better balance of the inmate population throughout the Federal prison system; a decrease in the number of transfers, particularly for custody reasons; reduction in the number of inmates seeking placement in protective custody; elimination of preferential transfers between institutions; and better use of available resources. The number of escapes and assaults was assessed. Findings from several projects showed either no change or a decrease in escapes or assaults. An examination of the prison population does indicate that the new designation system has brought better balance to the institutions of the Bureau of Prisons. General transfers have been reduced, and preferential transfers have been eliminated. The new system has also allowed better analysis of available resources and the needs of the prisons. Only one criterion has not been satisfied. The number of inmates seeking protective custody has not been reduced. Not only have most of the criteria been met, but the documentation for decisions required by the system can reduce the number of inmate litigations and can serve as an effective management tool for altering problem situations when they arise. Tables, figures, and one reference are given.