The data-informed and community-engaged process of DICE™ helps communities address crime by identifying environmental and social factors that make certain locations vulnerable. Too often, the default response is to increase security—adding police patrols, cameras, or private security—but these measures don’t address the root causes of crime or improve the space itself.
DICE takes a different approach. We challenge stakeholders to think beyond enforcement and consider a broader set of remedies that make spaces safer by design. This includes physical changes to the environment, energizing spaces with positive activity, and establishing policies that create long-term change.
In our breakout sessions during DICE meetings, we use structured frameworks to help guide discussions with this bias to recommend more security in mind. Below is a table that can help groups assess risk narratives and develop holistic, place-based solutions that reduce crime while strengthening the community.
Here’s an example of such a framework:
DICE Breakout Group Framework: Expanding Risk Remedies
| Key Question | Example Solutions | Our Group’s Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| How can we make this space less inviting for crime through physical improvements? | Better lighting, clear sightlines, maintenance, landscaping, redesigning pathways | |
| What positive activities or uses could replace negative ones? | Markets, public art, food vendors, small business incentives, community events, after-school programs | |
| How can we improve ownership and responsibility for this space? | Neighborhood watch (non-enforcement focus), business improvement districts, resident-led projects, partnerships with local groups | |
| Are there policy or zoning changes that could help? | Restricting liquor licenses, adjusting business hours, zoning for mixed-use development, traffic calming measures | |
| Would security or enforcement changes help? (Only after other options are explored) | Targeted outreach, improved response times, CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) principles, trained community liaisons |
Using the Framework in DICE Meetings
This framework helps guide breakout groups through a structured discussion, ensuring that solutions are well-rounded and not limited to enforcement. Facilitators should encourage creative thinking, asking:
- What can make this space more useful and inviting to the community?
- How do we address the root causes instead of just reacting to crime?
- What solutions create lasting change rather than temporary fixes?
By capturing a diverse range of risk remedies, we empower communities to create safer environments that foster engagement, economic activity, and long-term public safety—without relying solely on traditional enforcement methods.