Probation has proven to be a successful alternative because it helps with rehabilitating the offenders, it also prevent some offenders from becoming institutionalized, which can lead to greater problems. It saves the country a lot of money and resources by relieving the overcrowded prison system. Probation addresses a fundament change in the approach to crimes, offenders and their place in society, changing the focus of penitentiary measures from punishment and isolation, to restorative justice and reintegration. When accompanied by adequate support for offenders, it assists some of the most vulnerable members of society to lead life without having to relapse back into criminal behaviors patterns (unodc.org).
The one way I believe probation can get better is if the person on probation complete their sentencing time and programs and are able to move forward with their lives. Some offenders will accomplish all of what was expected of them and remain on probation, which prevent them from living a normal life. This is how probation becomes ineffective.