Successful Program Implementation: Lessons From Blueprints

• NCJ Number: 204273
• Author(s): Sharon Mihalic; Katherine Irwin; Abigail Fagan; Diane Ballard; Delbert Elliott
• Date Published: July 2004
• Length: 12 pages
• Grant Number(s): 98-MU-MU-K005
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Sale Source: NCJRS Photocopy Services; Juvenile Justice Clearinghouse/NCJRS
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Instructional Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This report presents lessons on successful program implementation learned from the process evaluation of the Blueprints for Violence Prevention initiative.

Abstract

Although the Blueprints for Violence Prevention pertained to the implementation of programs designed to prevent violence, the process evaluation yielded findings applicable to the implementation of any successful program. The general areas assessed in the process evaluation were the securing of funds and resources, serving the targeted population, establishing links with other agencies, hiring and training staff, completing core and critical program elements, and providing the recommended dosage and duration of treatment. Based on the findings of the Blueprints process evaluation, this report advises that a successful initiative requires that communities assess their needs, commitment, and resources before implementation. Blueprints created a detailed application form that focused on these areas and conducted onsite feasibility visits to verify the information. This report further advises that to implement a program effectively, an organization requires administrative support, agency stability, a shared vision, and interagency links. Guidance is provided in each of these areas. Qualified staff is another important component of a successful program. Staff must be supportive and motivated toward program achievements; have the skills, experience, and credentials related to program operations and goals; and be paid for the bulk of the time they commit to the program. At a minimum, the site coordinator should be a paid half-time person. Also, every successful program needs an influential champion with sufficient power in the organization to influence decisions and effect change. Other important aspects of a successful program are its institutionalization within the mission of the host agency, ongoing training and technical assistance, and adherence to program design in the delivery of services. 31 annotated references