As a small, African American owned business leading the design and implementation of research and evaluation studies since 1984, DIR is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. By incorporating culturally-responsive practices which identify and include both traditional and innovative methods, DIR offers unique perspectives and approaches that have proven especially effective in conducting research and evaluation, including primary data collection, with diverse populations and organizations. We have deep experience in formative and summative evaluation approaches, employing the latest qualitative and quantitative analysis methods. We also provide technical assistance to enhance the capabilities of program providers to collect and use data for performance measurement, program planning, and outcome analysis.

Unique perspectives on data collection and research; sensitivity to diverse populations

DIR collects data through surveys, school and classroom observations, student assessments, qualitative in-depth interviewing, and focus groups. We operate a computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) center capable of handling large-volume surveys. We also maintain a nationwide roster of skilled multilingual staff for both field and telephone data collection. Our techniques and staff produce high response rates from diverse and difficult-to-reach populations. Such high response rates on topics in fields as varied as education, employment, teen pregnancy prevention, housing, diversity and climate, and client satisfaction facilitate accurate program assessment and planning. We use multiple platforms for web-based surveys tailored to our clients’ needs. Data files are designed and delivered to meet the unique specifications of each client.

Our permanent staff of Ph.D. and master’s level researchers, analysts, project directors, and program specialists is enhanced by our network of nationally recognized subject matter experts engaged for specialized projects. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, we maintain permanent offices in Rockville, Maryland (near Washington, DC), and have permanent staff in Menlo Park, California and Chicago, Illinois. We are committed to high quality work, ethical performance, fiscal responsibility, on-time delivery, and precision in reporting.

Our standard of excellence has been acknowledged by the following awards:

• Rigel Award, Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council
• Top 100 Small Businesses, Houston Business Journal
• Finalist for Business Innovator of the Year, Black Enterprise Magazine, (Dr. Russell H. Jackson)
• Sar Levitan, Advancing the Workforce Development Research Agenda Award, National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (Dr. Russell H. Jackson)
• 40 Under 40, Houston Business Journal (Dr. Sylvia R. Epps)
• Culturally Responsive Evaluation and Assessment (CREA) Affiliate Researcher (Dr. Sylvia R. Epps)