Workforce Development and Social Policy Research Center

The Workforce Development and Social Policy Research Center (WDSPRC) is the workforce and social policy research group of Optimal. The WDSPRC conducts rigorous research and program evaluation in many areas that address community needs both in general and specific groups, such as families, children, and the elderly. Our research studies have examined the operations and effectiveness of several major social programs. Optimal is currently evaluating programs that aim to promote healthy marriages in the context of the welfare reform. The WDSPRC has also been a major contributor to the evaluation of child support enforcement in Maryland. Additionally, the WDSPRC staff has conducted cost-benefit analyses for labor force development organizations. The staff has the combination of strong research skills and subject matter expertise to use in all research contexts, including statistical analysis of experimental and quasi-experimental designs, surveys, interviews, focus groups, and case studies. The WDSPRC also has experience with other issues relating to:

  • Labor Market Analysis
  • Wage Mandates
  • Occupational & Skill Set Forecasting
  • Policy (e.g., Workforce Investment Act, Youth Opportunity)
  • Child Support Enforcement
  • Foster Care & Adoption
  • Fatherhood/Paternal Involvement
  • Marriage Initiatives and Family Formation
  • Welfare Reform & Welfare-to-Work

For more information, email us at info@optimalsolutionsgroup.com.
Washington Office: 8100 Professional Place Suite 312 | New Carrollton, MD 20785 | Phone 301.306.1170 | Fax 301.306.1197
  Baltimore Office: 3225 Ellerslie Avenue | Suite E303.Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | Phone 443.451.7060 | Fax 443.451.7069