NCJ Number
129655
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 53 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1991) Pages: 38,40,41
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Correctional administrators need to be aware that architecture may enhance unit management effectiveness in new or existing facilities.
Abstract
Facility design directly affects unit size and location, the use of office space, decisions about supervision, and security levels. A design that allows inmates easy access to unit staff promotes program flexibility. Living units located out of hearing distance of one another work best. Preferably, unit staff office space should be based in or near the living unit. Decisions about the use of direct or indirect supervision are a programmatic issue that has architectural significance. Unit management permits staff who otherwise would be isolated in control centers to become integral members of the management team. Unit management functions well in both high and medium security facilities, although some special concerns require consideration when introducing unit management into a high security facility. Both inmates and staff benefit from unit management.