Create a new program if it will help you better serve your target population. Networking with other agencies providing similar or related services can be an invaluable boon to your outcomes analysis, Reeder adds. Real networking among agencies is rare. Reeder says that all parties could benefit from more openness. For instance, sharing policies and forms developed to address common problems can help everyone streamline work and avoid duplication of materials and wasted efforts.
Duplication is sometimes a matter of office politics.
But if you network with other agencies and use the services of outside consultants to find the most efficient ways to get things done, hurting Joe's feelings may be worth the time and money you save. One critical part of outcomes analysis is following up with clients who have graduated from your programs. Reeder recommends investing in an 800 number telephone line to make it as easy as possible for clients to return calls to you. You can also use an 800 number as a crisis line. To make your investment in an outside consultant pay off, you've got to use what you learn.