Cost Analysis in Program Evaluation: A Guide for Child Welfare Researchers and Service Providers

Provides support for child welfare service providers and evaluators interested in conducting cost analyses, especially as part of broader evaluations of child welfare services. Offers a framework for integrating cost analysis into program evaluations, which supports successful implementation of cost analysis and produces a fuller understanding of the programs or services studied. Presents key principles and concepts in cost analysis and provides guidance for defining the scope and purpose of a cost analysis and determining the information needed to conduct it. Explains steps in conducting a cost analysis and describes the advantages and disadvantages of specific methods for collecting and analyzing cost data.