Office of Research and Evaluation
The Office of Research and Evaluation (ORE) is a unit within the Metropolitan Social Services Department (MSS) of the Metropolitan Nashville/Davidson County Government. ORE is responsible for advising the MSS Board of Commissioners, the Executive Director, and the Senior Management Staff on increasing the effectiveness and efficiency of MSS programs and services designed to reach the most vulnerable people of Davidson County. The Office was created in accordance with Section 11.1102, Powers and Duties of the Metropolitan Social Services Commission Charter, that directs the department to engage in the study and research of the issues associated with poverty, as well as treatment methods. Further, research activities comprised an integral place in the new business model recommended by a 2004 performance audit, conducted by Maximus.
ORE’s mission is to ensure that all service lines and products of MSS are data driven, based on sound research and best practice models and adhere to a performance evaluation, best practice protocol. In collaboration with MSS unit directors and designated unit staff, ORE is responsible for performance management for MSS, conducts research and policy analyses, and develops and oversees research and evaluation projects to assess program performance and inform department policy and practice. The Office provides guidance, analysis, technical assistance, and oversight to MSS programs on: strategic planning; performance measurement; research and evaluation methods; statistical and program analysis; and synthesis and dissemination of research and demonstration findings. ORE, in conjunction with the Senior Management Team and the Planning and Coordination Unit, also represents MSS in the community on collaborative projects involving research and/or evaluation, including community needs assessments.