NCJ Number
114092
Date Published
1985
Length
40 pages
Annotation
This paper provides a step-by-step description of strategic planning undertaken to increase professionalism in a small California police department.
Abstract
The first step involved an analysis of the economic, political, social, and cultural milieu in which the agency operates. Next, weaknesses, opportunities, strengths, and threats within the department were analyzed. On the basis of this analysis, five objectives were defined for achievement within the next 10 years. These include generating a service-oriented attitude among all sworn and nonsworn personnel, developing a willingness to use open and honest communications among all personnel, reaching adequate staffing levels, raising the level of competence/training of all personnel 50 percent above the current State-wide average, and completing a new physical facility to provide sufficient space for additional personnel and technological enhancements. Three significant problems that will face the department by the end of the 20th Century were identified, and three scenarios for achieving objectives and dealing with these problems were generated and evaluated in terms of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, and stakeholders. The chosen scenario involved working within the current budget system to implement objectives that are budget sensitive. An examination of current momentum and organizational, people, facility, and financial requirements suggests that this strategy would be feasible. Preliminary tactics to achieve objectives and to monitor the plan's progress are described. 24 footnotes and 25 references.