Community supervision's main purpose is risk control. By using a structured approach to risk assessment based on standardized statistical instruments, risk control decisions can be made more reliable and visible so that they can be systematically controlled and studied. Although risk control errors cannot be eliminated, they can be minimized and managed. Under a systems approach to supervision, line officers must analyze the risk posed by the offender and the problems creating that risk, specify measurable objectives to resolve these problems, and identify resources to help the offender achieve these goals. This approach structures the officer's work routines and provides an excellent data source for administrative decisionmaking and controlled discretion. The approach will only work, however, if staff do not operate in isolation, accurate feedback mechanisms exist, and the unit supervisor takes a more managerial role. The book includes examples of behavioral objectives, chapter reference notes, an index, and appendixes presenting a probation form and a narrative summary of a sample case.