Through the Public Affairs Research Laboratory (PARL), Associate Professor and Master of Public Administration Director Douglas Carr provides community partners with research and survey tools, unraveling internal perspectives. PARL has garnered 40 years of research experience, where studies have guided municipal and county governments, nonprofit organizations, school districts and courts.

Associate Professor and Master of Public Administration Director Douglas Carr

“These research projects make a difference by facilitating decisions and actions guided by thorough analysis,” Carr says. “Often governments and nonprofit organizations do not have the internal capacity for extended analysis on a special project, and I enjoy building a team of faculty that can work with an organization to provide expertise meeting a specific need.”

Carr’s research aids innovation, ranging in strategic planning, program evaluation, survey and focus group research, workforce development, and economic impact analysis and statistical analysis. Each endeavor is tailored to the organization’s needs and interests, allowing them to focus on daily needs while Carr and his team delve into developing the organization on a deeper level.

Carr recently spent time conducting surveys for the city of Auburn Hills

“I will start a project by identifying faculty with expertise applicable to the project, and we will work with the government or nonprofit organization when developing a research plan,” he says. “These projects facilitate data driven decisions on the part of communities and nonprofit organizations.”

In Auburn Hills, Carr and his team curated a community survey, divided into two parts: residents and local businesses. The results offered the city community data that elaborated on the people’s current preferences and values. A clearer understanding of community ideals allows the city to make informed decisions on municipal programs, ordinances and overall priorities.

Carr leads partnerships based on statistics that grow into strong relationships and stronger surrounding communities.

Through the Public Affairs Research Laboratory, Carr provides community partners with research and survey tools