Three waves of stakeholder evaluation telephone surveys (at around 4,000 contacts per wave) and over 20 focus groups for WorkCover NSW over 2010-12, with Jetty Research as our quantitative survey partner. Survey design took place in collaboration with WorkCover, and data collation, analysis and reporting was completed to a high standard.
WorkCover NSW 2006-2009
Longitudinal Study on small businesses and workers compensation / OHS issues for WorkCover NSW. This three year study (in partnership with CREEDA Projects) used random telesurveys, telephone interviews and focus groups to better understand the factors motivating small businesses to engage and comply with workers compensation and OHS obligations.
WorkCover NSW evaluation 2009
In 2009, we prepard a comprehensive evaluation framework for the WorkCover NSW Three Year Small Business Plan activities. This work involved close collaboration with WorkCover staff to determine the use of existing data, potential for better use of WorkCover data, and the requirements of evaluation of activities. The Action Plan drew on these discussions and literature review to set out a carefully structured approach to assessing the effectiveness of the 3 Year Small Business Plan, using a mix of information from existing sources, targeted surveys, interviews and case studies. The Action Plan commented on the strengths and weaknesses of different evaluation tools and presented an ‘analysis map’ to guide WorkCover staff in running program-specific and group-wide evaluation activities.
In 2009 we also undertook an evaluation of WorkCover’s Small Business Forums program – using interviews with a mix of stakeholders including participants, WorkCover staff and Forum facilitators. The evaluation was undertaken 12 months into the Forums program and assessed the extent to which the Forums were meeting their stated aims.
Workcover 2011 evaluation
In 2011 we evaluated the Health and Safety Representatives program within WorkCover NSW using a carefully structured mix of stakeholder feedback (combining interviews, surveys and focus groups).
Evaluation for WorkCover NSW
Preparation of evaluation strategies for three major programs for WorkCover NSW in 2012 – using the Program Logic Framework and based on stakeholder research and internal consultations and workshops to determine the nature of the program activities and efficient evaluation methodologies.
Evaluation of Beyond Billabong
Evaluation of Beyond Billabong, a life and vocational training program for disadvantaged Indigenous youth across Queensland whose access to mainstream resources and opportunities is limited. As with AES, we conducted the economic outcomes and business model viability components of the evaluation, in a team led by Instinct and Reason Pty Ltd, in 2012.
Evaluation of the Aborignal Employment Straegy Service
Evaluation of the Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES), a wholly Indigenous owned recruitment, group and registered training service which aims to facilitate Indigenous employment opportunities throughout Australia by building relationships with Corporate Australia. We conducted the economic outcomes and business model viability components of the evaluation, in a team led by Instinct and Reason Pty Ltd, in 2012.
Buisiness Advisory Review
In 2012 Kim and Amanda worked for the Tasmanian Department of Economic Development to review their business advisory services – Enterprise Centres Tasmania and Business Mentor Services Tasmania. We interviewed a wide range of stakeholders including providers, users and local government, to recommend some changes to the way the program was delivered.
Tasmania food processing fesability study
In 2013 Kim and Amanda led an international team to prepare a feasibility study and business plan for a shared use food processing facility in northern Tasmania. We researched food production and processing activities in the region and interviewed and surveyed a wide range of operators (farmers, manufacturers and researchers) to understand market demand for pilot scale food production facilities in the region. We worked with Gael Deighton from the Foodbowl in New Zealand to determine a location and services design to deliver the right mix of services at 4 locations. The project was instigated by a joint group from the Uni of Tasmnia, CSIRO and the Department of Defence.
Advisory Project
In 2012-13 Kim was an adviser to the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet and member of a Steering Committee managing a review of the cost of regulation to NSW small and medium businesses, and collection of a series of case studies.
