Delivering Rigorous and Insightful Research

As a small business with a decades-long track record in research and evaluation studies, DIR applies a thoughtful, people-centered approach to data collection, technical support, analysis, and reporting. Our strategies ensure that all research and evaluation results are contextually informed, methodologically sound, and reflective of real-world experiences. By employing proven and innovative techniques, we capture meaningful insights that drive informed decision-making.

Comprehensive and High-Quality Data Approaches

DIR specializes in primary data collection through surveys of all types, school and classroom observations, student assessments, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and other qualitative approaches. We operate a computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) center capable of conducting large-scale surveys, and help desk functions, and maintain a nationwide network of highly trained field and telephone data collectors. Our expertise allows us to conduct work that applies to a broad range of participant groups, including those that are often underrepresented in research. Data files are structured and delivered according to each client’s specific requirement. By implementing rigorous and responsive approaches, and achieving high response rates, across a wide variety of studies—ranging from education and workforce development to health and community engagement—we provide accurate, actionable data and information that supports program effectiveness and policy decisions. Client priorities drive our technical support, ensuring customized, effective solutions.

Expertise, Precision, Commitment

Our permanent staff of Ph.D. and master’s level researchers, analysts, project directors, and program specialists is enhanced by our network of nationally recognized subject matter experts engaged for specialized projects. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, we maintain permanent offices in Rockville, Maryland (near Washington, DC), and have permanent staff in Menlo Park, California and Chicago, Illinois. We are committed to high quality work, ethical performance, fiscal responsibility, on-time delivery, and precision in reporting.

Our standard of excellence has been acknowledged by the following awards:

• Rigel Award, Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council
• Top 100 Small Businesses, Houston Business Journal
• Finalist for Business Innovator of the Year, Black Enterprise Magazine, (Dr. Russell H. Jackson)
• Sar Levitan, Advancing the Workforce Development Research Agenda Award, National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (Dr. Russell H. Jackson)
• 40 Under 40, Houston Business Journal (Dr. Sylvia R. Epps)
• Culturally Responsive Evaluation and Assessment (CREA) Affiliate Researcher (Dr. Sylvia R. Epps)