Appendix: Research Methodology
In collaboration with the Community Action Network (CAN), the Travis County Health and Human Services and Veterans Services Research and Planning Division worked with the CAN Assessment & Planning Committee to create a process for the ongoing Community Assessment. As suggested by the CAN Resource Council, the Assessment should be a report on community conditions and needs that is:
Balanced: includes diversity of input
Accurate: based upon data that is current and appropriate
Useful: helpful in making decisions
Accessible: clearly written, readily understandable and easily available
These criteria guided the research process and methodology. Input was sought from a wide range of stakeholders to achieve balance as well as to produce a useful document. Additionally, basic needs data, information and general advice was sought from basic needs service providers to ensure accuracy and balance. The draft documents were circulated for editing and comments to produce an accurate and accessible document for the community. The finalized document will be accessible in a printed format and on several web-sites. Furthermore, an evaluation form is included with each Assessment in order to provide ideas for enhancing future versions. In summary:
A. Guidance and assistance was obtained from: