SARA + R.E.A.L.: A Practical Framework for Real-World Problem Solving

Have you ever wished there was a simpler way to understand the SARA model and quickly assess whether a planned response is realistic, practical, and workable in the real world?

That is the purpose of this simple SARA + R.E.A.L. visual reference.

The SARA model provides a step-by-step problem-solving process:

Scan — What is the problem?

Analyze — Why is it happening? Where is it happening? When is it happening? Who is involved or affected?

Respond — What should we do to address it?

Assess — Did it work? Why or why not?

The R.E.A.L. test helps determine whether the response is practical enough to succeed:

Realistic — Does it fit the agency’s staffing, time, authority, and resources?

Executable — Can the people responsible actually carry it out?

Adaptable — Can it be adjusted as conditions change?

Lasting — Can it create meaningful and sustainable improvement over time?

Put simply, SARA helps work through the problem. The R.E.A.L. test helps determine whether the response can actually work for the agency.

For those in the field who may not have the time or interest to read through longer explanations, this visual provides a plain-language reference that is easy to understand, easy to explain, and easy to apply to real-world crime, disorder, repeat-call, and public safety problems.

Smarter Policing. Safer Communities.