Iowa Family Investment Program (FIP) Evaluation: Study Types

Types of Studies

Type Implementation/Process Study
Aim To emphasize the processes by which Iowa planned for and created new policies in response to the TANF requirements and how these new policies are being integrated into the state’s existing welfare reform program (FIP).

To describe the learning that occurs in the course of implementation and how the state adjusts its policies in response to that learning.

To provide Iowa with valuable feedback on program strengths and weaknesses and the effects of implementation of welfare clients, as the state continues to develop and refine its FIP program to meet TANF requirements.

To provide other state and ACF with insights into policy options, potential problems, and possible solutions in TANF implementation.

 
Type Impact Study (Controlled Experiment)
Aim To investigate the net impacts of welfare reform, that is the effects of welfare reform after holding other factors that could influence these outcomes (such as economic conditions) constant.
 
Type Descriptive/Analytical Study
Aim To describe the standard and enhanced post-employment services provided by PROMISE JOBS, document progress toward self-sufficiency by clients who have access to the enhanced level of post-employment services and clients who do not, and welfare participation patterns across these two groups of clients.
 
Type Cost-Benefit Study
Aim To provide a framework for comparing the various benefits and costs of Iowa’s welfare program and for determining how each is allocated.