NCJ Number
100968
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 55 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1986) Pages: 5-12
Date Published
1986
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) inhouse evaluation structure and effects; suggests criteria for deciding whether to have such a staff; and recommends steps for organizing, operating, and assessing the evaluation unit.
Abstract
The FBI evaluation unit reviews major investigative programs every 5 years, analyzes policy topics selected by top management, and addresses management problems. The evaluation unit has assisted in making the FBI a more effective and efficient organization. The decision about establishing an inhouse evaluation staff should be based on an assessment of an agency's management style and organizational environment. Effective organizing for evaluation requires setting clear objectives, locating the staff appropriately in the organization, selecting quality personnel, and selecting appropriate evaluation subjects. Evaluation operations should focus on the utility and timing of findings, and action recommendations should be central in evaluation reports. The implementation of these recommendations must be monitored. The evaluation process consists of a literature review, the development of an evaluation plan, data gathering, analysis and report writing, and the management of conflict related to findings and recommendations. The effectiveness of the evaluation process is determined by whether problems are identified and resolved to the benefit of the organization's productivity and efficiency. 10 footnotes.