Observational Designs: Primary Data Collection

Observational studies, including surveys, longitudinal cohort studies, and qualitative studies, provide essential insights. We have expertise recruiting samples that are representative of the underlying population and using sample weighting to draw estimates of effect. We design questionnaires that use validated instruments that allow for comparisons to data in the general population, and administer these using trauma-informed practices that allow for honest, non-traumatizing responses. We conduct longitudinal cohort studies wherein we follow a group of people over time, allowing us to observe what happens as people enter and exit homelessness. 

Using novel methods, we achieve follow-up rates comparable to high-quality studies in non-homeless populations. We have deep expertise not only in qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, focus groups, and ethnography, but also in combining these methods, to produce high quality mixed-methods research.