With expertise in quantitative and qualitative assessment, as well as business process re-engineering, the Institute for Governmental Service and Research (IGSR) functions to: improve outcomes, operations, and policies; inform decision-making; and increase knowledge and adoption of evidence-based practices in the public service delivery arena. Over the years, IGSR has partnered with local governments, state and federal agencies, university researchers, and private organizations on applied research and technical assistance projects in areas of justice, including problem-solving courts and corrections, public health and safety, organizational effectiveness, and fiscal and land use management.
The Institute develops and directs research studies designed to inform and improve policy and operations in the delivery of state and local services. Teams of IGSR researchers and planners work closely with agencies to devise project plans, interpret findings, and develop interventions and strategies tailored to work and service settings, and which yield results that lead to more effective practices or to improved service levels and public savings. Projects can also entail efforts to foster efficacy and enhance collaboration across organizational boundaries.
The Institute's advisory services to governments and community organizations, includes projects in which IGSR assesses needs and clarifies issues to assist policy development and service improvement efforts. IGSR has extensive experience planning and conducting organizational assessments with many projects involving facilitation, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.
In addition to supporting SMART, a database application used to connect drug treatment providers and drug courts within Maryland, the Institute develops innovative, customized software and service solutions to automate and improve the efficiency of public agencies. IT projects include business process analysis and re-engineering, modeling studies, systems/project management, custom applications and programming, training, technical support, and NIST audits for small organizations.
The Virtual Learning Center is an online instructional resource; the place for information, education, and training not only for Marylanders who serve on local government and other volunteer boards and commissions, but also for those who engage volunteers serving on public bodies. The VLC fosters excellence in governance by enhancing the understanding of the role of governance, promoting high ethical standards in volunteer service, and providing an education base for better informed Marylanders.