NCJ Number
94720
Date Published
1983
Length
52 pages
Annotation
Workload systems in probation and parole are designed to provide data for budget justification and support, to enable an agency to appropriately allocate its resources, and to enhance agency accountability.
Abstract
Workload systems are integrally related to client classification systems, agency standards, management information systems, and training programs of the agency. Common elements of existing workload systems include client classification, workload measurement, and workload reporting and forms. Each of these elements requires consideration of a number of options for implementation. Classification decisions include criteria used to determine supervision priority (risk, needs, officer impression), number of supervision levels, determination of contact standards (face-to-face, home/field, collateral), establishment of cut off scores on the basis of case distribution or recidivism, timing of scale completion, and reassessment scheduling. Workload measurement requires seven major decisions concerned with identifying workload generating functions; the time study methodology to be used, sampling (client or officer samples), length of study, data collection, function-specific versus client-investigation-specific data analysis, and determining hours available. Reporting decisions include recordkeeping medium (computerized, manual, or a combination), frequency of summary reporting, and assignment of the reporting function to clerical versus supervisory staff. Within the framework of these decisions, recommendations for implementation of a workload system are made. Appendixes provide an outline for workload project development and samples of 12-month workload implementation plans, a time study form, a classification ledger, a workload summary report, and workload budgets. Eleven references are provided.