Rebecca Mathara Arachchi

Module 6
Assignment 3
Case: BUDGET WOES AND WORSE AHEAD

What research would you conduct to help Downie to persuade the skeptics on the Board and
staff that the changes he was proposing for Pine Street were the most optimal?
Following types of research can be conducted to persuade the skeptics on the Board and staff
Data Analysis: To conduct a thorough analysis of data related to homelessness trends, shelter
occupancy rates, success rates of transitional housing programs, and outcomes of supportive
housing initiatives. Data-driven evidence can help demonstrate the effectiveness and potential
impact of the proposed changes at Pine Street.
Case Studies: Through this research it can analyze case studies of other homeless shelters or
organizations that have successfully transitioned from a shelter-focused model to a housing-
focused model. Understanding the strategies, challenges faced, and outcomes of similar transitions
can provide valuable insights and evidence to support the proposed changes at Pine Street.
Stakeholder Surveys and Interviews: We can also gather feedback from current and past residents
of Pine Street, staff members, Board members, and other stakeholders through surveys and
interviews. Understanding their perspectives, concerns, and expectations can help tailor the
communication strategy to address specific doubts or resistance towards the proposed changes.
Financial Analysis: A comprehensive financial analysis will be conducted to illustrate potential
cost savings, long-term sustainability, and return on investment associated with transitioning from
a shelter-focused to a housing-focused model.

Who will you interview and why?

To conduct the research below people could be interviewed:
Lyndia Downie: Interviewing Lyndia Downie, the Executive Director of Pine Street, would
provide a deep understanding of the rationale behind the proposed changes, the vision for the
organization's future, and the challenges faced in implementing the new strategy.
Mary Jo Bane: As the Board Chair and a key collaborator in developing the proposal for
transitioning Pine Street's focus, interviewing Mary Jo Bane can offer insights into the decision-
making process, the strategic considerations behind the proposed changes, and the anticipated
impact on the organization's mission and goals.
Current and Former Residents: Conducting interviews with current and former residents of Pine
Street can provide firsthand accounts of their experiences, challenges faced in transitioning out of
homelessness, and the impact of supportive housing initiatives.
Board Members: Interviewing Board members who may be hesitant about the proposed changes
can help identify their concerns, perspectives, and areas of resistance. Understanding their
viewpoints can inform the communication strategy and address specific doubts or misconceptions
that may exist within the Board.
Staff Members: Interviewing staff members at Pine Street, including frontline workers, case
managers, and program coordinators, can offer insights into the operational implications of the
proposed changes, the capacity for implementation, and the potential challenges in transitioning
to a housing-focused model.

If you were using a sample, how would you select your sample? (You can review the diverse
types of sample selection methods here: Sampling Methods | Types, Techniques & Examples
(scribbr.com)
The following sampling methods could be considered:
Snowball Sampling: This method involves identifying initial participants who meet the criteria for
the study and then asking them to refer to other potential participants. Snowball sampling could
be useful for reaching individuals who may not be easily accessible but have valuable insights or
experiences related to the proposed changes at Pine Street.
Purposeful Sampling: This method involves selecting participants based on their relevance to the
research question and their ability to provide valuable insights. In this case, purposeful sampling
could involve selecting individuals such as Lyndia Downie, Mary Jo Bane, current and former
residents, Board members, and staff members who have direct knowledge and experience related
to the proposed changes at Pine Street.
Convenience Sampling: This method involves selecting participants based on their availability and
accessibility. While convenience sampling may not always yield a representative sample, it can be
practical for quickly gathering insights from individuals who are readily accessible, such as staff
members or residents at Pine Street.

How would you apply the concepts we have learned/discussed in the course so far:
To apply effective data organization to Pine Street Inn's financial and operational data, the
organization can enhance its ability to analyze, interpret, and utilize information for strategic
decision-making. Therefore, using measures of central tendency to this case, we can gain valuable
insights into its budget trends. For example: Mean: The mean can be calculated to determine the
average revenue, expenses, or funding levels over a specific period.
Furthermore, variability analysis can also investigate the organization's financial situation. For
example, Range: Calculating the range of Pine Street Inn's revenue, expenses, or funding levels
can provide a simple measure of the spread of financial data.
Lastly, In the context of Pine Street Inn's budget challenges and strategic re-thinking, analyzing
relationships (correlations) can provide valuable insights into the interdependencies of various
financial and operational factors. For example, Revenue and Expenses: By examining the
correlation between revenue and expenses, Pine Street Inn can assess how changes in revenue
impact its expenditure patterns.
How and with whom would you share your research findings? Why?
The following stakeholders and communication channels could be considered to effectively share
the research findings aimed at supporting Downie in persuading the skeptics on the Board and staff
at Pine Street,
The Residents of Pine Street: Communicate the research findings to current and former residents
of Pine Street through resident meetings, focus groups, or feedback sessions. Involving residents
in the research findings can provide a platform for their voices to be heard, gather feedback on the
proposed changes, and ensure that their perspectives are considered in the decision-making
process.
Board Members representing pine street: Present the research findings to them through a formal
meeting or presentation. Sharing the findings with the Board members is crucial as they play a key
role in decision-making and can provide valuable insights and feedback on the proposed changes.
Staff Members: Share the research findings with staff members at Pine Street through staff
meetings, workshops, or training sessions. Engaging staff members in the research findings can
help build understanding, address concerns, and foster buy-in for the proposed changes.
Online Platforms: Utilize online platforms, such as the organization's website, social media
channels, or email newsletters, to share the research findings with a wider audience. By leveraging
digital communication channels, Pine Street can reach a broader community, engage stakeholders
virtually, and encourage dialogue around the proposed changes.
Community Partners: Share the research findings with community partners, local organizations,
and government agencies involved in homelessness services through presentations, reports, or
collaborative meetings. Engaging with community partners can help build support, foster
collaboration, and leverage resources to implement the proposed changes effectively.