NCJ Number
80965
Journal
Journal of Police Science and Administration Volume: 9 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1981) Pages: 412-427
Date Published
1981
Length
16 pages
Annotation
The police officer productivity assessment program effects a more positive result-oriented delivery of police services, using a basic systems management approach. The experience of the program's installation and use in Englewood, Colo., are summarized.
Abstract
The first step in instituting the police officer productivity assessment program is an evaluation of the department's current activity. This is done through analyses of criminal and traffic activity trends; average response time trends and service demand; personnel affairs summary (misconduct allegations, commendations, etc.); court disposition summaries; monthly and annual division, watch, team, and individual activity trends; and the annual employee performance evaluation report. The second step involves the development of measurable objectives that increase the likelihood of improving overall service. Objectives should be developed at each organizational level and then be made complementary to one another. The third step involves the actual development of the program. This begins with the daily field activity report, which reflects the individual officer's daily activities, and a corresponding patrol activity accountability system, which provides cumulative information about reports, arrests, summonses, field interviews, and other uniformed field activities for purposes of time and work accountability for each officer, each watch, and the patrol division as a whole. The evaluation of an officer's activities consists of the development of an activity index and the placing of a weight or value on each type of patrol activity. The fourth step involves evaluation of the program at regular intervals. Adjustments in values assigned to activities or revision of objectives can be done as the evaluation identifies weaknesses or problems. The testing of the productivity assessment program in the Englewood, Colo., department produced favorable results. Forms used in the program are provided.