The 208 standards, accompanied by discussion, address components of probation and parole management: administration and organization; personnel; training and staff development; fiscal management; case records; management information and research; supervision; presentence investigation and reporting; and citizen involvement and use of volunteers. Each standard is weighted 'mandatory,' 'essential,' or 'important,' and agencies desiring accreditation must meet 80 percent of the important, 90 percent of the essential, and all of the mandatory standards. The standards measure acceptable performance and should be exceeded if possible. Their use should promote more effective policies and procedures and improve services. Appendixes contain a glossary, a chart comparing weighted values for standards in the first edition, and the ACA code of ethics. An index is provided.