TDCJ-CJAD Data Manual - Texas Department of Criminal Justice

The Future of Data CollectionThis data manual covers a number of paper-based reports that CSCDs are required to submit toTDCJ-CJAD. Many of these reports can be automated to reduce errors and minimize data entrytime for both CSCDs and TDCJ-CJAD staff. The Research and Evaluation Unit is in the processof evaluating all required reports and identifying ways in which the same information can becollected more efficiently. The following improvements have been accomplished: Actual Program Output Report – Paper based reporting has been eliminated in favorof a web-based data collection instrument. In addition, extraneous information that isnot used has been removed to reduce the time required to complete the report. Caseload Report – A web-based application has been developed to allow each CSCDto enter their caseload information. This has increased response rates and reduceddata entry errors. Ad Hoc Surveys – Whenever possible, electronic reporting of data is utilized toincrease response rates and reduce workload on CSCD staff responding to therequest.Through the use of data collected in ISYS, TDCJ-CJAD has been able to reduce data requests toCSCDs and provide the Texas Legislature with significantly more detailed information aboutpersons on community supervision in Texas. ISYS collects offender-based data on probationersunder supervision, placed on supervision, and terminating supervision. ISYS data requirementsalso include reporting demographic, offense, and program participation data.Specifically, ISYS has allowed CJAD to: Compile the annual Offender Profile from data already submitted. Previously,CSCDs compiled their individual offender profile annually and submitted it to CJAD.The new process ensures the data is compiled in the same manner for everydepartment and permits the results to be easily shared with every department. Compile data to present to the Legislature and other entities requesting informationregarding topics such as technical violators, absconders, risk level of offenders, sexoffenders under community supervision, and effectiveness of residential treatmentcenters.Despite being in development for some time, ISYS in its current form is a relatively new system.As such, the data it collects is not fully populated. While the current level of data permitsResearch and Evaluation to sample the data to conduct research and program evaluations, a fullypopulated ISYS will be a much more powerful tool in examining community supervision inTexas. Once ISYS is fully populated, CJAD anticipates being able to reduce or eliminate thefollowing: MCSCR Page 1 and 2 MCSCR Program and Intervention Report MCSCR Residential Facilities Report State Jail Felons Supplemental Report Actual Program Output Report Caseload Report- 87 ­