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Policy Research
Maryn Consulting utilizes established research methodologies and academic standards to conduct research that examines public policies and the impacts public policies and practices have on government and private sector programs, activities and behaviors. Our policy research is conducted to provide information to decision-makers in the public and private sector as they develop, implement or evaluate policies and programming. Literature Reviews In order to best understand the complexity, depth, and context of an issue, Maryn Consulting typically conducts a literature review at the outset of a policy analysis project. We access numerous academic search engines and databases, as well as experts in the field, to identify and examine relevant resources and data for inclusion in a literature review. Ultimately Maryn documents literature review findings in a report for the client, utilizing the accepted format and documentation particular to the client and identified audience. Identification of “Best Practices” Maryn Consulting recognizes that successful policies, programs and methodologies are being utilized on a regular basis across the world to address challenges in all spheres. Many such efforts have been identified and documented, and are being replicated on both large and small scales. However, public policy challenges remain. Public and private sector initiatives can benefit from leveraging the successes of similar efforts. Maryn demonstrated experience examining successful policies and projects to identify the “best practices” associated with policy development and program implementation. Maryn identifies best practices through literature reviews, discussions with experts in the field, statistical analyses and case studies. Once identified, these best practices are described and documented for clients, in accordance with specified requirements. Case Studies Maryn Consulting has demonstrated experience identifying and documenting exemplary programs addressing public policy challenges at the state and local level. Utilizing academic research and practitioner resources, as well as gathering information from experts in the field, Maryn leverages existing knowledge to identify programs that may have the potential to be replicated, or adapted to meet similar needs in other communities or states. Through telephone and electronic communications, as well as on-site visits, Maryn gathers detailed information on these programs, their histories, challenges and successes. Ultimately Maryn produces written and verbal reports on programs featured as case studies in order to share critical information with practitioners and policymakers. In addition to Case Study projects, Maryn Consulting conducts program assessments, which are more comprehensive in nature. Please see Program Assessments under the Services tab for further information. Legislative Research Maryn Consulting conducts research regarding federal, state and local laws specific to client direction. Maryn typically utilizes Westlaw to conduct such research. This research may be utilized to examine trends in state or local legislation regarding a specific topic, or to examine outcomes impacted by federal, state or local legislation. Program Evaluation Maryn Consulting conducts rigorous evaluations of state or local programming that examine program outcomes or program processes, or both. Maryn utilizes sound methodologies, tailored to the specific needs of the client, to collect and analyze data to determine if program objectives are being met, or to examine the fidelity of program implementation according to an identified model or planned process. Performance Measures Maryn Consulting has demonstrated experience working with state and community programs to develop and measure performance objectives. Performance measures should be useful in tracking actual outcomes of program activities and must be identified and measured appropriately in order to be meaningful. Maryn recognizes that each program is uniquely implemented; however, best practices and lessons learned from similar programs may be utilized to inform the process of performance measurement. We are able to understand the complexities of program implementation from the perspective of practitioners and policy-makers, and assist in the development of meaningful performance measures. Reports and Presentations Maryn Consulting recognizes that it is critical to present information to policy-makers and practitioners in a useful, clear manner. Our staff includes former public administrators, local practitioners, and academicians. Reports and presentations are tailored for each special audience, and presented clearly and concisely. td> |
