NCJ Number
100186
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 65 Issue: 2 Dated: (Autumn-Winter 1985) Pages: 14-31
Date Published
1985
Length
18 pages
Annotation
An analysis of the use of private contracting for providing correctional services concludes that contracting can improve both costs and quality and presents guidelines for use by correctional administrators in planning and carrying out contracts.
Abstract
Data came from a survey mailed to 54 jurisdictions. The 52 responding agencies each had at least 1 contract with the private sector. The respondents included 21 adult agencies, 15 juvenile agencies, and 12 agencies responsible for both adult and juvenile services. The benefits of contracting were improvements in administrative operations, cost savings, and improved services and conditions. Problems included the possibility that the contract would cost more than providing the services within the agency, poor service, process difficulties, and poor contracting relationships. Other problems were legal issues relating to authority, responsibility, and liability and political concerns relating to control over the agency operations. Nevertheless, contracting is usually cost-effective and can improve quality. Administrators are considering expanding contracting. The two potential roles of the private sector are as direct service provider and as assistant to the agency in delivering a service. Guidelines are presented that list when correctional administrators should consider contracting, planning strategies, the selection process, contracting activities, and postcontracting activities. Increased private sector contracting is predicted. 2 footnotes.