Funding has come from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, National Center of Health Statistics, and the National Institute of Justice. Reports generated by the Center are weighed heavily by policy makers and often help increase the understanding of social issues. Tobacco use, seat belt observation, attitudes toward euthanasia and a survey of Japanese-affiliated manufacturers are a few of the recent studies conducted. A considerable number of the staff have national reputations, particularly in survey methodology. Conducting survey research in an academic environment heightens the challenge.
Universities expect a lot from their survey centers.
The Center also utilizes skilled research assistants, interviewers and coders. Teamwork is crucial. The competent staff and national reputation garner endless requests for assistance. The Center provides free consultations but must often turn away jobs. A trust of UMass Boston, the Center's services are available to the university on a contract basis.