Quantitative Research

Decisionmakers rely on strong datasets to make strategic and evidence-based decisions on public health initiatives. Quantitative research studies generate many of those vital datasets. Recognizing this link, Futures Group’s approach to research is to work with key stakeholders throughout the research process with the goal of collecting relevant information that is aligned with local health initiatives, leading to findings that can be used to draw practical and actionable conclusions for program development and improvement. In collaboration with local stakeholders, Futures Group experts actively conduct primary research studies, as well as secondary analyses and triangulation of existing datasets.

Under the MEASURE Evaluation Project, for example, Futures Group is now conducting an exploratory survey of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kigali, jointly with the National AIDS Control Commission and UNAIDS. Rwandan HIV policy has not yet addressed HIV prevention among MSM, primarily due to a lack of data on the nature of homosexual (risk) activity in Rwanda. This study is designed to obtain preliminary data on the nature of MSM HIV risk activity in Kigali to influence national HIV/STI prevention and care policy, as well as inform a more comprehensive national survey of MSM.