Every release decision should be fully documented; the results of the risk-assessment, the collection and analysis of related information, and the rationale for the release decision should accompany a standardized, objective decision-making process. Collection of this data is particularly important, given the rapidly changing nature of the risk assessment field. Accurate record-keeping also allows the releasing authority and outside evaluators to gauge the effectiveness of the decision-making process, evaluate trends, and determine ways to improve the criminal justice system's response to the risks and needs of prisoners. (See Policy Statement 6, Measuring Outcomes and Evaluating the Impact of a Re-Entry Initiative, for a discussion of using documented results to shape release and other policies.)