Date

4-26-2026

ESRP 9000 Professor

Jason Abreu, Ed.D.

ESRP 9001 Professor

Jason Abreu, Ed.D.

Executive Summary

A Strategic Research Project Analyzing Effective Implementation of Evidence-based Practices in a Prison System. Marjorie M. Hardy, 2026. Strategic Research Project, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Keywords: action plan, attractiveness, autocratic leadership style, biosphere, bureaucracy, bureaucratic leadership style, charismatic leadership style, correctional officer, crime, decision-making, democratic leadership, digital experience, dynamic capability, effectiveness, evidence, fidelity, innovation, knowledge utilization, leadership, leadership style, medical innovation, operational stress, organizational climate, organizational performance, organizational stress, organizational structure, prison climate, prison culture, recidivism rate, resistance, resources, security levels, social disintegration, social disorganization, strategic planning, strategy, team performance, teamwork, transactional leadership, and transformational leadership.

This strategic research project was designed to provide an internal and external analysis of a prison system to improve organizational performance. The department’s mission is to provide for the needs of inmates, and for a safe environment for all individuals. The vision is to inspire and transform lives. The values of the department include respect, integrity, courage, and compassion. Sometimes the core identity of value and mission do not align. Determining how well the system was operating consisted of assessing both the internal and external environments via a SWOT Analysis. Key factors affecting organizational performance included a lack of innovation and staff turnover. The problem identified was that certain leadership styles interfere with innovation and may increase staff turnover. Managers play a critical role, both internal and external, in the department.

Managers who use transactional leadership style tend to focus more on tasks and roles. In a rapidly changing environment, it is better to adopt a leadership style that embraces change and focuses on the employee rather than solely on rigid task completion. Managers who use transformational leadership style tend to focus on the employee, which motivates the employee to increase performance and creativity. Creativity is a major component of innovation. Developing innovative processes and procedures are critical to maintain sustainability in a changing economy. Evidence-based practices and technological advances assist in developing easier and more effective programs in today’s prison system. A detailed strategy for implementing an evidence-based transformational leadership training program was determined to be the best action plan. Research included recommendations to maintain program fidelity. Future research might focus on treatment sustainability rather than the program process sustainability.

Document Type

Strategic Research Project-NSU Access Only

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

College

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education

Concentration

Human Services Administration

Language

English

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