Problem Orientation, Problem Solving and Organizational Change

The widespread adoption of problem-oriented policing requires a dramatic and fundamental change in both the organizational focus of the police and the manner in which day to day policing is performed. The focus of this article is on the factors that have limited the implementation of problem-oriented policing. These are partitioned into two groups; those inhibiting the problem orientation of the organization and those inhibiting the problem solving of police officers. The key principles of successful organizational change are discussed, drawing upon the relevant psychological literature. Examples are given with an emphasis upon public sector agencies. Finally, solutions for overcoming the apparently intractable implementation problems are presented Crime Prevention Studies, vol. 15 (2003), pp. 183-212. Michael Townsley, Shane D. Johnson and Ken Pease that draw on the principles identified in the change management litera-