Starting an MPO Program-Lessons Learned

I have been working on getting the MPO program started at my department for 6 years and we are just now implementing the program. Here are some things that I learned along the way.

 

1. Timing is everything. Budgets go into effect with most government agencies on October 1st. So budget development starts around March.You have to prep your command staff and have support the year prior to attempting to implement the program.

 

2. You have to sell the program as a way to benefit the department first. Approaching it from the perspective of the officer will be met with resistance.

 

3. Know how much the program will cost to the penny. It will come down to dollars and cents in the end. Try to think of ways the program will save money or time before you pitch the program to your superiors.

 

4. Get a group of senior officers that have all the right qualities and meet with them. Have them display their leadership abilities throughout the year and use them as your example to the command staff of what a good MPO should be. Those senior officers should become your allies in pushing the program.