For the first time, Columbus-Muscogee County leaders have data-driven research that looks at multiple issues related to poverty simultaneously. Vinson Institute data analysis specialists recently joined with faculty from UGA's Fanning Institute to carry out a two-part poverty study for the Building Prosperity in Columbus-Muscogee County Steering Committee.
The customized analysis began with the identification of factors documented as affecting poverty rates in Georgia counties overall, said Rich Clark, manager of the Vinson Institute's survey research and data services work. "Our research differed from that done previously. We used a statistical method called regression analysis that allowed us to feed in numerous causal variables and then eventually determine those most closely tied to Columbus-Muscogee."
Poverty research typically focuses on the effects of a single issue, Clark continued. "While the model and method we used are limited by the data available and the restricted ability to draw causal relations, they do take us beyond many earlier quantitative approaches in poverty research."
Results of the analysis were presented to the steering committee in March. That data, combined with a study by Fanning faculty of best practices to address poverty causes, will serve as information tools the committee can use as it develops a strategic plan. The Vinson Institute is also working with the committee on the creation of benchmarks to help it determine the plan's progress when it is implemented.
