Projections: Where Will Your State Be in 3, 5, or 10 Years?

In order to achieve measureable results, it is essential to examine the direction in which a trend is likely to move.  Making projections allows policymakers to determine the current and future conditions and set realistic and appropriate targets.

 Questions to Consider

• What do trends suggest about the current outcomes for children, families and communities?

• What will recidivism rates look like in the near and distant future (for instance, after one year, three years and five years) if you continue on the current course?

• Does the projected trend suggest positive conditions for children, youth and families? If positive change is projected is it significant? Is it enough?

• What is the impact on communities, public systems and state budgets?