NCJ Number
109923
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 60 Issue: 4 Dated: (October-December 1987) Pages: 321-336
Date Published
1987
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article examines whether policing by objectives (PBO) is an appropriate and adequate response to British Home Office circular 114/83, which emphasizes the importance of identifying policing priorities, setting objectives, and analyzing performance.
Abstract
Most police forces have adopted some form of PBO, believing it to be the management form best suited for complying with the circular. Management by objectives (MBO), which was derived from the human relations school of thought, is based in motivating staff by clarifying organizational objectives, involving them in setting their own goals, and providing simple measures that reinforce this commitment. Although PBO purports to be an extension of MBO into policing, PBO loses the dynamic of MBO as it turns management into a mechanistic, rational process that does not respond to the needs of persons in the organization or the community served. The Home Office circular does not mandate such mechanistic management but rather challenges police forces to develop creative management forms that operate effectively and efficiently. Police forces should be developing new theories that will not only fulfill the requirements of circular 114/83 but change the operational mode of police organizations. Police managers should take into account cultural aspects of management. Examination of the police role in the context of superordinate goals could provide overall coordinating values which would develop that culture and give meaning to police activities. 16 references and 14-item bibliography.