Optimizing data collection and analysis processes in the Canadian homelessness sector: Review of the literature and analysis of options

Non-profits in the homelessness sector, especially smaller ones, tend to collect, analyze and use limited amounts of data: occupancy rates, numbers of meals served, etc. In order to better serve their clients, and to manage their organization more effectively, a more robust approach to capturing and analyzing data on client characteristics, satisfaction and outcomes is needed. This project will : (1) summarize what the scientific literature reports concerning the advantages and disadvantages of different ways of collecting, analyzing and using data in social services non-profits; (2) ascertain, by interviewing 5 to 7 non-profits with exemplary data practices, just what these practices are; and (3) in addition, find out how organizations that have used the Canadian federal Homeless Individuals and Families Information System assess its advantages and disadvantages. The results will help the partner organization, The Open Door Montréal, design a data collection strategy adapted to its size and needs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dimitra Panagiotoglou

Student:

Partner:

The Open Door Montréal

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

McGill University

Program: