Research methods

In terms of method, AKF focuses on value-for-money surveys, effect measurements, benchmarking, assessments, prioritisation, management and organisation.

AKF has a multi-disciplinary approach and uses a number of social science methods, primarily within economics, administration and sociology. This means that highly qualified and cohesive surveys can be conducted that reveal how local authorities and regions can learn from each other and enhance their efficiency.

Economic methods

AKF uses economic methods to make value-for-money surveys that calculate whether socio-economic benefits, eg from employment initiatives, justify their costs. Such calculations can also reveal whether some types of initiatives have a greater effect per krone spent than other initiatives. AKF has a large databank at its disposal with local economic indicators (ECO indicators) that are used for economic analyses.

Microeconometrics/register research

Statistical methods and models are used extensively in AKF’s research projects. With register data, studies can divide entire populations not only into smaller units such as municipalities, but also into various groups of citizens, which is a major advantage.

Benchmarking

During benchmarking surveys, AKF compares local authorities’ or institutions’ results to determine which is performing best. The goal is for other local authorities and institutions to learn from those that are performing well. In this context it is vital that the differences in citizens and companies served by local authorities and institutions are taken into account.

Effect measurements

One way to ease the burden on public-sector budgets is to be better at implementing initiatives with the greatest impact. AKF therefore conducts surveys that compare the effect of initiatives targeting a group of citizens or companies with the same problems. During effect measurements, for example, AKF considers that it is not a matter of chance which measures are offered to citizens and which they choose.

Qualitative methods

AKF uses qualitative methods for research projects that have many interacting factors but not many units such as people or organisations. Qualitative methods are relevant if research is to be conducted on the interaction and development processes in organisations and the local community, etc.

Qualitative effect measurements

During qualitative assessments, AKF focuses on whether a particular initiative has resulted in better job satisfaction for employees, for example. The citizens’ rating of the holistic aspect of the initiatives, such as how patients are treated in the course of their illness, can also be more efficiently revealed through qualitative methods than through quantitative methods.