The Institute for Social Research works to customize applied studies according to our clients' analytical needs, timelines, and budgets. We use a variety of quantitative and qualitative social science research methods to produce rigorous and actionable results. We are also experts in working with diverse and vulnerable populations, ensuring that any study we implement is culturally and linguistically appropriate to the targeted communities.

Assessments

Assessments help to understand the conditions and issues facing a community or organization by using existing data and/or collecting new information. We have designed dozens of assessments that have incorporated document review, face-to-face interviews, focus groups, and surveys for clients. Examples include: Workload Studies, Needs Assessment, Fidelity Assessment, and Cost-Benefit Analysis.

Program & Policy Evaluation

Evaluations measure the short and long term impacts of an intervention, whether it is for a local program or a statewide policy. We work with our clients to develop logic models and identify measurable indicators that best reflect the intended changes their intervention seeks to achieve. Our evaluation expertise covers a whole range of evaluative approaches, included developmental, process, outcome, and impact. Our evaluations have included developing measures from administrative data, to designing assessments and instruments to capture specific outcomes.

Survey Research

The Institute has extensive capabilities for designing and implementing survey-based studies. Whether as a key component of a larger research effort, or a stand-alone public opinion poll, we have a range of methodological options for survey implementation. Our CalSpeaks at Sacramento State initiative is an ongoing state-wide survey panel that allows for representative public opinion polling. We have also developed custom survey panels for clients that are highly representative of specific populations and regions of interest. Examples of other types of survey capabilities we have include: Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI), web and smart phone surveys, Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI), and the sampling of weighting of survey results.

Specialized Analyses

Some projects require a specialized approach in order to produce the types of information needed. For example, for those studies requiring the highest level of methodological rigor, we design and implement experimental and quasi-experimental research. We also have the capacity to conduct causal and hierarchical modeling, survival analysis, ethnography, content analysis, and network analysis.