Disparity Studies

Shelby County, TN
SPW partnered with Griffin & Strong to conduct interviews and assessments with businesses, community stakeholders and focus groups to understand impacts of the County’s purchasing practices. SPW assisted in interviews of minority and prime vendors; facilitation of community engagement meetings and regular updates to the County Commission.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Study and Implementation Memphis, TN
SPW partnered with MGT of America and Griffin & Strong in two separate studies to coordinate and manage three Public Meetings; design and conduct 50 in-depth interviews; design and conduct 850 online consensus surveys; conduct five area Stakeholder interviews; and develop anecdotal analysis report. This was a first-generation disparity study, and the school system had little or no existing documentation.

• Inform businesses about opportunities with the District
• Educate businesses in the market area about the procurement process; the MWBE Program; networking meetings and educational seminars
• Design and provide the Board of Education with marketing material for each outreach method.

Memphis Light, Gas & Water Division (MLGW)
SPW conducted the 2018 and 2022 public awareness and engagement components of the studies for this major utility company. Each study period covered five years of purchasing practices. Work included:

• Web-based Surveys
• Custom Census Surveys
• Study Assessment & Measurement
• Identifying Issues
• Planning Community Forums
• Conducting Anecdotal Interviews with business owners
• Focus Groups
• Public Hearings

Metro Davidson County, TN
SPW partnered with Griffin & Strong to conduct interviews and assessments with businesses and community stakeholders.

City of Portsmouth, VA
SPW conducted in-depth interviews with area businesses; provided analysis and policy recommendations, and supported public meetings.

Athens-Clarke County, GA
SPW partnered with MGT Consulting Group to conduct in-depth business and stakeholder interviews; and facilitate focus groups.

Northern Illinois Utilities Diverse Market Development Initiative
SPW partnered with non-profit Emerald Cities Collaborative to conduct a Market Development Initiative to expand opportunities for diverse suppliers in the trade ally/service provider network, and to describe the challenges of Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors participating in energy efficiency programs. SPW conducted anecdotal interviews and organized focus groups in support of the initiatives.

Hampton, VA Poverty Study
SPW partnered with MGT Consulting Group to conduct in-depth business and stakeholder interviews; facilitate culturally-competent community engagement and focus groups. SPW developed recommendations to reduce poverty and its impacts.

Arlington County, VA Disparity Study
SPW conducted qualitative research and anecdotal evidence to identify discrimination, demonstrate a compelling interest, and assist with crafting recommendations. Engagement conducted:

• At least two business engagement meetings
• 50 in-depth interviews with local businesses
• 20 stakeholder organizational interviews