Enabling Problem-Solving
The following checklists sets out the main requirements to enable an effective
approach and the potential obstructions. The checklist is from research carried out
in police forces in England and Wales but the principles have application to other
agencies.
|
Requirements for successful problem-solving approach
Presence of a committed, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and involved leadership
Provision of:
practical help and advice in planning and doing problem-solving
data, analytic software for analysis and competent analysts
information, training and experience to inform problem-solving
Development of:
methods to disseminate good practice
structures to encourage problem-solving
units or task-forces dedicated to specific areas of problem-solving
Allocation of staff on the basis of their aptitudes
Use of rewards to incentivise problem-solving
|
|
Obstructions
Weaknesses in analysis and shortage of analysts
Limitations in data sharing and data quality
Inadequate use of crime reduction specialists
Inadequate time set aside for problem-solving
Exclusive focus on local, low level problems
Crudely operated performance management arrangements
Inattention to and weakness in evaluations of problem-solving efforts
|
‘Not Rocket Science? Problem-Solving and Crime Reduction’, Crime Reduction
Research Series Paper 6 London; Home Office (2000) http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/prgpdfs/crrs06.pdf
|
