Plans Are Useless...Planning Is Essential: A Case for Sketch Planning in Corrections (From State of Corrections: Proceedings of ACA Annual Conferences, 1989, P 122-129, 1990, Ann Dargis, ed. -- See NCJ-122583)

• NCJ Number: 122603
• Author(s): S A Carter
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: American Correctional Association
• Publication Type: Report (Technical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The sketch planning approach is more effective than the traditional planning process in corrections in that it relies on informed consensus instead of an extensive needs assessment as the basis for planning, and it can adjust rapidly to changing conditions.

Abstract

Plans are essential, but the planning process is even more essential than the plan. We cannot expect either our short-term decisions or our long-term decisions to be effective in times of accelerated change. Sketch planning consists of the establishment of parameters of acceptability, supported by consensus-building agreements around narrowly-focused issues. This approach relies heavily on economic choice models, with data provided by other jurisdictions with similar problems. Sketch planning bases choices on reliable experiential data, identifies action steps with definable time frames for completion, clearly defines and maintains accountability, and repeats continuously the planning process.