By: Joe Robbins, Product Implementation Specialist
Created by a Ph.D. Behavioral Scientist and an industry practitioner with decades of experience, the Decision Tree is the only transparent, objective, and automated inmate classification system. Proven to streamline classification, provide the necessary information to make data-driven classification management decisions, and facilitate a safer facility, the automated Decision Tree makes your job easier in five distinct ways.
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Ensures You are Compliant
State standards and local policies often mandate a classification instrument that is objective. The Decision Tree is both objective and validated. Taught by the National Institute of Corrections and American Jail Association, it helps you comply with stringent state and local standards.
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Mitigates Your Risk
With a transparent, fair, and easy-to-use classification tool, you and your facility are mitigated against liability. The Decision Tree has been tested in court and withstood challenges as an objective system that classifies inmates properly for a safer facility. By using the Decision Tree software and keeping your staff properly trained, you have a defensible classification instrument to minimize litigation exposure.
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Saves You Time
Mistakes in the classification process can be dangerous and costly. You need a classification system that takes minutes, but properly classifies inmates to create a safer facility. The Decision Tree provides a solution that saves time during intake, enhances safety, and transforms classification from a slow, subjective process to one that’s simple, fast, and well-proven. With a series of yes or no questions, this point and click software drives you to a quick and reliable inmate classification result. In addition, users can become proficient after one training session; the software is user-friendly and essentially fail-safe.
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Provides Nine Clear Classification Levels, Easy to Review and Reclassify
The Decision Tree sorts inmates into three distinct security levels—Minimum, Medium, and Maximum. The Decision Tree includes another layer of distinguishing the difference between individuals–custody levels are broken down into nine levels within the three security levels. The tool also allows you to override the classification decision (for a higher or lower security level) with a required reason. It’s also easy to reclassify and review classification levels using times and triggers; you can save time and simplify the necessary responses to managing inmate behavior.
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Provides Foundation for More Efficient Classification Management
Proper initial classification is the foundation for a safer facility for both inmates and staff. Taking classification results and ensuring those are strategically considered to house and manage populations—from programming and incentives to recreation, transportation, and more—means enhanced safety and outcomes for everyone involved. A safer facility means less staff turnover and data points that can help recruit top performers.
One of only two nationally recognized classification instruments in the country—and the only automated one—the Decision Tree improves staff and inmate safety by separating violent inmates from non-violent offenders and guiding proper treatment and housing considerations. Developed by practitioners for practitioners, it saves time and mitigates litigation exposure. Plus, it integrates quickly and seamlessly with minimal training required to be proficient. A Decision Tree user once said: “With a properly managed facility, it is possible to run a safe, clean, and quiet jail that protects both inmates and staff.” For more information about Decision Tree or to schedule a demo, please contact us.
