Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long does it usually take to complete a research project?

A. It varies depending on amount of data that the client can make available and the amount which the researchers must collected or develop. Typically, our projects require between a month and six months to complete. We often work on very short time frames and always deliver our product on time and on budget.

Q. How much should I expect to spend on the project?

A. Again, that depends on the complexity of the project. We prepare a proposed agreement for our clients based on the estimated number of hours and a billing rate of $200-$250 per hour for professional research services. Typically, a client will spend at least $10,000-$15,000 for a specialized research project. Projects that require many months of customized surveying and modeling to prepare and much analytical work can cost upwards of $75,000-$100,000.

Q. Do you also do forensic economic analyses?

A. Yes we do prepare forensic analyses. Forensic economics is the practice of analyzing the financial damages or liability associated with legal claims or litigation. Our billing rate of this type of analysis is $150-$250 per hour depending upon the complexity of the analysis. Our rate to provide any legislative or legal presentation or testimony is $300-400 per hour.

Q. What type of payment terms do you expect?

A. Once we have agreed on an accepted proposal, we develop an agreed upon budget and we will not exceed the stipulated fee unless the client wishes later to change the specifications of the project. We consider the project completed only when the results are acceptable to the client. Payment is due in full within 30 day after the project is completed.

Q. Who owns the rights to the finished product?

A. Generally, the clients owns all rights to the research results, any printed reports and models or data that were developed in the course of the project unless specifically stipulated in the project agreement. Copies of reports that we have included on this web site appear with the permission of the clients.

Q. What types of models do you use in your analyses?

A. We custom develop our statistical and economic models for each project using surveying, projection, extrapolation and input-output tools. We have access to some of the most sophisticated computer modeling tools including the IMPLAN Input-Output Model for Iowa and surround states.