NCJ Number
244516
Date Published
June 2013
Length
39 pages
Annotation
After noting the volume and diversity of data sources and media associated with corrections operations, this report discusses the tools and products of corrections data management.
Abstract
An overview of the trend in corrections data is captured under four "V's": Volume (high); Velocity (high flow rate); Value (high volume of data produced at accelerated rates); and Variety (multiple types of datasets). The overall trend is captured in the term "big data." Investing in a comprehensive information management strategy is essential for knowing what is happening in a corrections system in a timely, accurate, and informative manner. Four outcomes from the effective management of "big" data are noted. First, it enables understanding and leveraging data as a primary strategic asset. Second, implementing an information governance model covers data ownership, meta-data, security, and visibility of data. Third, discovering patterns and developing insights through predictive analytics helps close the gap between strategy and execution. Fourth, enabling better decisions and outcomes results from having the right information, at the right time, and by the right method. Emerging technology that facilitates the management of "big data" is discussed. The goal is to achieve "intelligent information insight across structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data so as to result in timely, intelligent decisionmaking that advances cost-effective corrections. Examples of the benefits of effective "big" data management include the optimization of labor and post positions for officers in a correctional facility and monitoring and surveillance. Also discussed are unstructured and structured data analysis, "big" data discovery, the stages of achieving information optimization, and "bright spots" in corrections analytics.