SupportingStatement_PartB_12.17.08_v3

SUPPORTING STATEMENT FOR
PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT SUBMISSIONS

B.

Collection of Information Employment Statistical Methods

The agency should be prepared to justify its decision not to use statistical methods in any case
where such methods might reduce burden or improve accuracy of results. When Item 17 on the
Form OMB 83-I is checked "Yes", the following documentation should be included in the
Supporting Statement to the extent that it applies to the methods proposed:
1.

Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any
sampling or other respondent selection methods to be used. Data on the number of entities
(e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households, or persons) in the
universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in
tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample.
Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection had been
conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

The universe of respondents is the universe of urban and non-urban HVRP grantees currently being
funded by VETS as HVRP grantees. No statistical methods will be used. All data collection will be based
on a 100% sample of the inference population (urban and non-urban HVRP grantees). In all reports and
other publications and statements resulting from this work, no attempt will be made to draw inferences to
any population other than the set of units that responded to the data collection effort.
2.

Describe the procedures for the collection of information including:
•
•
•
•
•

Statistical methodology for stratification and sample selection,
Estimation procedure,
Degree of accuracy needed for the purpose described in the justification,
Unusual problems requiring specialized sampling procedures, and
Any use of periodic (less frequently than annual) data collection cycles to reduce
burden.

The universe of respondents is the entire urban and non-urban HVRP grantee population currently being
funded, including those classified as “new grantees”; there is no sub-sample selected within this
population.
3.
Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The
accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses.
For collections based on sampling, a special justification must be provided for any collection that
will not yield "reliable" data that can be generalized to the universe studied.
Non-response will be addressed through direct follow-up via email with the grantee organization’s
director to request response. Participation in the survey is entirely voluntary. The independent evaluator
will complete two non-response follow-up emails per grantee organization after the two week requested
response period elapses and will follow-up for another two weeks. During these follow-up emails, the
evaluator will request participation in the survey and provide any technical assistance relative to
accessing the Web-based survey instruments and/or submitting responses.

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4.
Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken. Testing is encouraged as an
effective means of refining collections of information to minimize burden and improve utility. Tests
must be approved if they call for answers to identical questions from 10 or more respondents. A
proposed test or set of tests may be submitted for approval separately or in combination with the
main collection of information.
N/A

5.
Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of
the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will
actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.
N/A

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