Major committee activities in the typical program review process are outlined in the  figure.  The process begins with the selection of topics for review based on suggestions from a variety of sources including program review committee members, other members of the General Assembly, the committee staff, staff and officials within the executive branch, and the general public. 

The committee seeks topics with a potential for meaningful, constructive impact.  In assessing a proposed topic, the committee considers the significance of the breadth of public and official concern and the degree of state control over the issue.  The committee also considers the timeliness of a proposed study.  It would not want to duplicate or conflict with another ongoing review or recently completed study covering the same areas. 

The selection process also takes into account the current state of the agency or program to be studied.  Generally, the committee avoids reviews of programs that were recently created, reorganized, or given new management. 

A program review  is initiated after studied consideration and a majority vote of the full committee.  The staff is then directed to develop a detailed scope of study to define the focus and limits of the study.  The scope is reviewed by the committee, modified if necessary, and adopted by a majority vote. 

Committee staff use a variety of methods to gather information for a program evaluation.  Typically, these include: literature reviews and statute searches; extensive examination of program records, files, and financial information; interviews with agency personnel and outside experts; field visits; surveys of agency employees and clients; contact with other jurisdictions, similar private sector operations, and national professional or research organizations; and informational public hearings. 

Prior to public hearings, briefings are held by staff to present background information and preliminary findings to committee members.  At the conclusion of the research phase, the committee receives staff findings and proposed recommendations to address identified problems.  Program review staff present these to the committee for discussion and final action. 

Recommendations adopted by the committee along with relevant background information are published in a final report prepared by program review staff.  Agencies subject to review are asked to review and comment on the committee's final recommendations and, if provided, their formal responses are included in the published report.  Subsequently, the committee will raise legislation to implement its recommendations for statutory changes for consideration by the full General Assembly.