NCJ Number
98106
Journal
State Court Journal Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1985) Pages: 6-9,15-17
Date Published
1985
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper explains the types of juvenile restitution programs and gives information on the development and integration of automated management information systems (MIS) to support these programs.
Abstract
The three types of restitution programs are those providing (1) financial restitution to the victim, (2) services restitution to the victim, and (3) restitution through community service. An operational MIS should make it possible to establish measurable goals, monitor the agency's progress toward meeting those goals, track individual cases, signal if crucial events occur as scheduled, and help those responsible take corrective action. MIS programs need a well-organized administrative structure based on a comprehensive policies and procedures manual. Both manual and automated MIS require the same set of steps in their design and implementation. The first step is a feasibility study to evaluate the nature of the program and the potential for improvement through use of a MIS. A requirements analysis, perhaps the most important step, measures what will be required of the MIS. Further steps are the identification of objectives; a cost-benefit analysis and review of alternatives; and staffing, organization, and planning. Software selection and procurement, hardware selection and procurement, testing and modification, implementation and staff training, and monitoring and evaluation are additional steps. Cases involving financial restitution need a system closely tied to an accounting system. Cases involving services restitution require reports from supervising or monitoring officials. Fully tested and installed, a system is possible at a cost of less than $20,000. Details of specific information to be included in the MIS are included.