Literature Reviews and Guides

This chapter combines a series of studies that can conveniently be referred to as “Literature Reviews and Guides”. Some are more focused on systematically describing the literature, others are more concerned with advocating best practice in setting up and operating EI systems. All of them involve degrees of overlap, so that repeat points are summarized briefly in the chapter while additional positions are given more attention. Some of the more useful checklist summaries are included. The chapter is structured in a sequential format with the authors’ names and dates of publications. The studies provide common themes of practical benefit. Ensuring systems are tailor-made and that they suit the specific circumstances of each department is a common recommendation, as is flexibility in matching interventions to officer profiles. Consulting with staff and unions in development phases is also a common recommendation, along with in-house research and benchmarking to select appropriate indicators and thresholds. Implementing a communication strategy to ensure all staff are clear about the goals of systems, and ensuring adequate training for all staff with roles in EI systems, are also considered best practice. Front-line supervisor involvement with profiled officers is considered essential. System evaluation and continuous improvement are also widely recommended.