Five tasks that comprise the study of future trends in corrections are addressed: (1) orienting the study to the values and goals of key corrections actors, (2) identifying changes that could affect achievement of these goals, (3) developing alternative scenarios for corrections in the year 2000, (4) simulating alternative environments with key stakeholders, and (5) developing information on emerging issues. Seven papers illustrate the futuristic thinking required of corrections managers and policymakers in fulfilling their ongoing management and planning responsibilities. The papers focus on improving offender control in the community, managing a changing correctional population, improving offender classification, financing corrections, training offenders in computers, and involving citizens in corrections operations. More than 75 suggestions for monitoring corrections trends and developments are provided; issues to be monitored include changes in the perceived value of corrections, demographic changes, and ideological shifts in crime control policy. Strategies for monitoring these issues are recommended: attention focuses on the importance of holding workshops for corrections leaders and of training corrections managers in futures research. Nineteen tables and figures are included. Appendixes provide a summary of trends in corrections, a 20-item annotated bibliography, suggestions for research and for policymaking, and descriptions of emerging issues and potential 'surprise' events.