ICPA and IJIS Institute Form Strategic Alliance to Advance Corrections Technology and Best Practices
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The IJIS Institute and the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA) announced the formation of a strategic alliance designed to strengthen collaboration between corrections professionals and technology experts worldwide. The alliance will focus on delivering complementary services that address critical challenges facing correctional agencies across the globe.
The partnership brings together two influential organizations with distinct but complementary missions. IJIS Institute has long been recognized for its work in advancing information sharing and technology integration within the justice and public safety sectors. ICPA represents a global network of corrections professionals dedicated to improving correctional practices and promoting international cooperation.
"This alliance represents a significant opportunity for both organizations to amplify their impact," said Natalie Boal, Executive Director, ICPA. "By combining ICPA's deep corrections expertise with IJIS Institute's technology leadership, we can better serve the needs of correctional agencies worldwide."
The strategic alliance outlines the primary areas of cooperation:
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Information Sharing and Best Practices: The partnership will create channels for members of both organizations to exchange insights, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to corrections and technology implementation. This knowledge exchange will help correctional agencies stay current with developments in their fields and improve operational efficiency.
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Joint Research and Development: ICPA and IJIS Institute will collaborate on research projects addressing key challenges in the corrections sector. These initiatives may include exploring emerging technologies, conducting impact assessments, and developing standards and guidelines for technology deployment in correctional settings.
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Training and Capacity Building: The alliance will enhance professional development opportunities through workshops, webinars, conferences, and other educational programs. These initiatives will equip correctional professionals and technology practitioners with the skills needed to leverage technology effectively while advancing correctional objectives and public safety.
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Policy Advocacy and Thought Leadership: As respected voices in their respective fields, the partner organizations will collaborate on advocacy campaigns, policy briefs, and thought leadership forums. This work will focus on promoting responsible and ethical technology use in corrections at local, national, and international levels.
"ICPA and IJIS will also begin working on a podcast series that will give us a platform to share stories and insights from corrections leaders worldwide," said Steven Van De Steene, ICPA Technology Solutions Network.
"Through this series, we can showcase how technology is transforming corrections practices and highlighting innovative work happening across different jurisdictions. The Technology Solutions Network is committed to advancing corrections through ICT and technology-enabled business transformation, and this partnership with IJIS Institute will help us reach a broader audience with evidence-based solutions and proven methodologies."
The timing of this partnership reflects growing recognition of technology's role in modern corrections. From data analytics and information sharing systems to rehabilitation programs and facility management, technology increasingly shapes how correctional agencies operate and deliver services.
The alliance positions both organizations to influence the conversation around technology adoption in corrections, ensuring that implementations prioritize rehabilitation, safety, and ethical considerations alongside operational efficiency.
With the agreement now in place, both organizations are moving forward with implementation plans. Initial priorities include establishing working groups, planning the first joint educational events, and launching the podcast series.
The partnership represents a commitment by both organizations to address the complex challenges facing modern corrections through collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise. By joining forces, ICPA and IJIS Institute aim to create lasting value for their members and contribute to meaningful improvements in correctional practices worldwide.
About IJIS Institute
The IJIS Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving public safety and the administration of justice through information sharing and technology integration. Founded to address the critical need for interoperability among justice and public safety agencies, IJIS has established itself as a thought leader in developing standards, best practices, and frameworks that enable secure and effective information exchange.
The organization works closely with federal, state, and local agencies to advance technology solutions that enhance coordination across the criminal justice continuum—from law enforcement and courts to corrections and community supervision. IJIS Institute's expertise spans data governance, privacy protection, system integration, and the development of technical standards that support seamless information sharing while safeguarding civil liberties.
Through research, education, and collaborative initiatives, the IJIS Institute helps public safety and justice organizations leverage technology to improve decision-making, increase operational efficiency, and better serve their communities. The organization convenes stakeholders from across sectors to address emerging challenges and opportunities at the intersection of technology, policy, and practice.