An overview of planning discusses its benefits and identifies six basic steps: recognizing problem areas, determining objectives, developing alternatives for meeting these objectives, assessing the effect of each alternative, choosing a project, and using the results of this activity to improve future planning. These principles are then applied to the criminal justice area, guided by broad objectives formulated by the Governor's Committee. Ideas for projects evolve from research about programs in other jurisdictions or the imagination of local planners. Types of projects that can be developed locally are examined, such as pilot programs or regional activities. Assessments of a project's effect should consider the implications for the criminal justice system, costs, and the likelihood of successful implementation. Standards that the Governor's Committee will use in selecting projects are described, as are methods to measure a program's effectiveness and management efficiency. A discussion of regional planning efforts addresses the policy board, staff, study committees, and consultants. The appendixes contain checklists for planners, sources of criminal justice system standards, an explanation of the Governor's Committee objectives, examples of possible projects, and a model organization for a local planning unit.