FAQs
What is a Disparity Study?
Disparity studies are used to determine whether there is disparity between the use of minority- and women-owned businesses and the availability of those firms in the State’s market area. Through the collection of qualitative data, a disparity study seeks to understand the effects of race, ethnicity, and gender on a business’s ability to do business in the State marketplace – both public and private sectors.
What is quantitative data?
Quantitative data is numerical, measurable, and other quantifiable information that is analyzed using mathematical and statistical modeling. Among other things, the quantitative analyses in a disparity study will include a comparison of the availability and utilization of minority- and women-owned businesses in the State’s marketplace.
What is qualitative data?
Qualitative data is information that business owners provide about their actual experiences on the effects of race and gender on their ability to do or attempt to do business with the State, with prime contractors/vendors, and in the private sector. Qualitative data helps explain and lend credence to the statistical findings of the disparity study. It also helps identify whether discrimination prevents firms from participating in contracts.
Why is it important that business owners participate in the Study?
Business owners that do business, or want to do business, in the State’s marketplace are impacted by the State’s policies, procedures, and guidelines. Participation in this Study allows business owners to provide first-person accounts of their experiences in the State’s marketplace. Input from the business community may help the State better understand whether discrimination poses barriers for businesses and, if so, how best to eliminate that discrimination and remedy its effects.
How can my firm provide my experiences doing business, or attempting to do business, in the State of Ohio marketplace?
There are many options for a firm to provide their experiences.
- A firm can complete the Contact Form and MGT can reach out to gather more detailed information regarding the experiences.
- A firm can contact us directly at [email protected]
- A firm can leave more detailed experience information in the Comments section of the Contact Form
What will the State of Ohio do with the findings of this Study?
The Ohio Department of Development will be presented with the Study’s findings to assist in its review of existing program effectiveness and the development of future programs.