Our Guiding Principles

  1. Data as a Strategic Resource

We recognize the value of data in running an efficient police department, but are also mindful of the financial and labor cost necessary to collect, store, and analyze data. Data is only helpful when it has a clearly defined and understood purpose, and data collection and analyses should be streamlined if they do not align with goals the department is trying to measure, or are not legally mandated. 

2. Maximizing Existing Resources

We believe true efficiency comes not from system overhauls or from expensive new tools, but rather that it comes from optimizing what your agency already has. We believe that the staff and technology that departments have on hand can be reallocated and processes can be streamlined or eliminated in order to increase efficiency without the need for new systems or additional personnel. 

3. Collaborative Validation

We understand that we are outsiders to your agency, and we will not produce a report based on assumptions or findings that lack context. While we recognize that your staff time is at a premium, we aim to have targeted ongoing communication to validate and provide context to findings as they emerge.

4. Customized, Evidence-Based Solutions

We are keenly aware that a “one-size-fits-all” solution does not exist to understand and improve public safety operations. While we can learn from our work with other agencies, we cannot rely on the assumption that what we have observed or what has worked in other places will work for you. There are more than 18,000 agencies in 50-plus states and territories, and each has a unique history, mandate, and characteristics. Therefore, we will develop a set of analyses and deliverables that works for you.