NCJ Number
191372
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 70 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2001 Pages: 12-18
Date Published
October 2001
Length
7 pages
Annotation
By implementing a new job performance appraisal system and a new management tool, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) has sought to drive change at every level of the organization.
Abstract
On July 1, 2000, the WSP implemented two new job performance appraisal (JPA) regimens, one for troopers and sergeants and the other for lieutenants. The new JPA form consists of three sections. The first section, a fairly standard evaluation format, consists of both traditional core WSP values and newer dimensions derived from the agency's strategic plan, problem-oriented policing, and quality (e.g., problem-solving skills, partnership cultivation, and interest/knowledge of citizen concerns). In this section, supervisors rate officers on 29 critical dimensions. Raters use behavioral benchmarks within each dimension to guide their evaluations. The second section of the JPA form focuses on the local strategic plan and outcome performance measures, rather than the traditional enforcement approach toward common objectives, such as reducing speed-related and alcohol-related collisions. For troopers and sergeants, the third section of the JPA form documents that the supervisor administered a regulation-manual knowledge exam on policies that encompass areas concerning officer safety and agency risk management. For lieutenants, the section consists of a professional growth and development plan. The new management tool developed is called the Strategic Advancement Forum. It involves reporting on progress in the strategic plan in an open forum that also allows idea-sharing among peer commanders. It provides an arena for two-way communication between the command and executive staff; creates an environment where commanders can practice collaborative problem-solving; and enhances accountability and leadership development of agency managers. Although it is too early to have any substantial data on how well the two innovations are operating, the results of internal and external surveys provide evidence of a positive trend. 12 notes