OJP considers programs and practices to be evidenced-based when their effectiveness has been positively demonstrated by causal evidence (generally obtained through one or more rigorous outcome evaluations). Causal evidence documents a relationship between an activity or intervention (including technology) and its intended outcome, including measuring the direction and size of a change and the extent to which a change may be attributed to the activity or intervention. Causal evidence depends on the use of scientific methods to rule out, to the extent possible, alternative explanations for the documented change.

The CrimeSolutions.gov website is a resource that assists practitioners and policy makers with finding information about evidence-based programs in criminal justice, juvenile justice, and crime victim services.