Multisite Trials in Criminal Justice Settings: Trials and Tribulations of Field Experiments

Abstract

Multisite trials present challenges due to sociopolitical environment of the study, site preparation issues and research management protocols. This paper uses two case studies from complex multilevel innovations involving two or more operating agencies to assess how research processes affect the internal and external validity of the study. This paper highlights the need to extend the discussion regarding experimental design into assessments of fidelity and adherence, or the common implementation issues, that continually affect the integrity of the experiment. The case studies highlight the typical, often confounding, decisions that researchers must make in a study to adapt to the study environment. The case studies serve to provide a discussion of issues regarding the design and conduct of multisite trials. We conclude by providing lessons learned in conducting or being involved in multisite trials including the use of CONSORT charts as a tool to assess impact of implementation decisions on experimental integrity.