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Direct Supervision as an Organizational Management System

NCJ Number
112598
Journal
American Jails Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1987) Pages: 50,52-53
Author(s)
R M Davis
Date Published
1987
Length
3 pages
Annotation
The eight principles of direct supervision in jails can be used not only as methods of controlling inmate behavior but also as methods for managing an organization and controlling staff behavior.
Abstract
A problem employee should be considered for discharge only after all the eight principles are fulfilled. The principle of competent staff can be a starting point for developing a management staff. The competence results from recruitment, selection, and training. The principle of classification and orientation is also crucial, in that employees must know what is expected and what they can expect from their supervisors, managers, and the organization. Further principles are effective communication, effective supervision, just and fair supervision, effective control, and the implementation of a manageable and cost-effective operation. These concepts are being used in the Pima County (Ariz.) Sheriff's Department Corrections Bureau, which has found that nearly every problem is the result of violating one or more of the principles of direct supervision.