The implementation of new technologies in both public and private organizations has assumed increasing importance in the last several years. In the criminal justice system, numerous advances in the use of information and programs are being incorporated into jails, courts, probation, community corrections, prisons and parole. These improvements aim to achieve greater efficiency, to comply with legal requirements, or to solve critical organizational problems (e.g. caseload sizes).

This diffusion of techniques and programs falls under the heading of "technology transfer". The key to success in such efforts is carefully planned implementation coupled with the appropriate technology. The increasing complexity of public organizations and the high costs of failure have created a need for improved understanding the keys to successful implementation.

All implementation initiatives is challenged to gain the commitment of staff. Correctional agencies are turning to planning structures, (e.g. internal change agents, transitional teams, "product champions," new forms of leadership) to gain commitment and help staff understand, assess and adopt new approaches. The diagram below shows four phases of implementation any new initiative must undertake. It is critical that these tasks are understood and planned for if successful implementation of the new technology is to be achieved. Northpointe works with all our clients to maximize implementation success by working through this process.