Although many court decisions have focused on prisoners' rights, the extent to which these rights are generally available to prisoners is unknown. Although some excellent research has been done, more and better research is needed as a basis for further discussion of theories of implementation or compliance. The research should focus on at least four subjects: the factors which contribute to compliance or noncompliance with court-ordered reform; the unanticipated consequences of such reform; the impact of court-ordered reform on employees, management, prisoners, and the public; and strategies used by organizations to promote or block compliance. Summative evaluations are more appropriate than formative evaluation for the assessment of implementation of decrees in correctional settings. Researchers should guarantee anonymity to the organization, its administration, and staff, and the special master in exchange for access to detailed information about the implementation process. Organizational and systems theories suggest the need for attention to the following variables: the system's power structure, the changing patterns of resource allocation, changes in the stated missions or goals, changes in policies, and changes in procedures. Systematic data collection procedures and multiple indicators are crucial to successful research efforts. This research can contribute to knowledge, to the application of knowledge, and to the training of the judiciary. Notes, a list of cases, and a list of 18 references are provided.