Resource Brief: Using Evaluation Results to Improve Service Delivery in Reentry Programs

Data and evaluation results are critical to improving reentry program and service delivery. To make the most of the data and evaluation results, consider the following strategies: 

1. Use formative and process evaluations for continuing improvement by doing the following: 
   • Critically thinking through data sources, which can include feedback from clients, staff, and partners, as well as any quantitative analyses. 
   • Using data and analysis to improve program implementation by eliminating, adding, or modifying services; acquiring more resources; and refining eligibility requirements.  
2. Examine program implementation and program outcome evaluation findings to determine final results. 
   • Process evaluation findings. After collecting feedback from clients, staff, and partners, conducting quantitative analyses will provide a final, detailed picture of program activities and key outcomes. 
   • Outcome evaluation findings. Reentry programs can use administrative data (e.g., rearrest rates) and self-reported survey data to assess the program’s impact over different time periods and to determine what programming worked for which participants.  

This brief from the Evaluation and Sustainability Training and Technical Assistance (ES TTA) team at RTI International and the Center for Justice Innovation (formerly the Center for Court Innovation) provides key insights into using evaluation results to improve service delivery in reentry programs. 

View the brief (PDF)