Performing analyses of law enforcement policies and patterns in practice may be among the most critical functions a civilian oversight agency can perform. Such analyses have great potential to advance the goals of effective civilian oversight by addressing systemic problems of  law enforcement agencies and by formulating recommendations that will improve relations with communities. By performing data-driven and evidence-based analyses of specific issues, oversight agencies can pinpoint areas of concern and formulate recommendations for improvement. To hold the overseen law enforcement agency’s executives accountable, timely, written responses to the oversight agency’s recommendations should be required and made public.