The Innovation of Community Policing and the COPS Office: Does Diffusion of Innovation Theory Hold in a Manipulated Environment?

Abstract

Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) theory provides prescribed stages for an innovation to traverse, in order to obtain field adoption. This study utilised DOI theory to demonstrate the impact a manipulated environment may have on diffusing public policy. Data were provided by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (the COPS Office). Analysis found that DOI theory does not hold in a manipulated environment. This research provides two considerations for adjusting DOI theory: financial incentives and politics. First, organisations with few resources may have equal access to innovations via government grants. Second, political agendas can be integral to diffusing an innovation.