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In general, HAL’s expertise is in issues involving the intersection of the economy, society, and business.
Strategy / Policy HAL’s significant body of work in the design, implementation and evaluation of major government programs has given us a good understanding of the policy, economic and social requirements for a successful program. This experience gives us the necessary context and background to provide expert advice for the preparation of strategic documents and policy advice. Economics HAL has a strong understanding of the instruments of an innovative economy. Our significant body of work on the innovation process has given us a good understanding of the policy, financial and regulatory tools needed to stimulate innovation, and the effective use of those tools in Canada and other countries. Industry Cluster Analysis Cluster theory suggests that competitive advantage derives not just from firm-based resources and capabilities, but also from the resources and capabilities located in the firm’s geographically proximate business environment. Cluster analysis enables accurate and effective policy and management intervention. HAL has developed a framework, process, and tools for cluster analysis. Program Management HAL can provide assistance at many points in the life-cycle of a program, from conception, through design, implementation, performance measurement, interim adjustment, and final evaluation. Program Evaluation HAL has had extensive experience in program evaluation in the public sector for over two decades. Activities include: examining the rationale for programs, both existing and proposed; measuring achievements of objectives; assessing impacts and effects of programs; determining more cost-effective methods to achieve objectives; and recommending future directions. Performance Measurement For years organizations have sought ways to effectively measure their performance against plan and to then clearly understand the meaning and cause for any resulting variances. Over time this requirement has been transformed from ad hoc approaches to the development and adoption of formal methodologies for performance measurement. HAL provides services throughout the performance measurement cycle: planning, measurement, reporting, and change management. Data Collection Most of HAL’s studies involve data collection through literature and data reviews, interviews, and surveys. Surveys provide a means to quickly and easily obtain feedback from a large number of stakeholders. HAL provide services from survey design, through survey administration, to the statistical analysis and interpretation of the results. HAL interviews are conducted by senior members of the project team using semi-structured and open-ended questions to allow for effective probing of the issues. Group Facilitation HAL provides computer-augmented meeting facilitation services. The tools we provide are collectively known as Group Decision Support Software (GDSS) and they help users to solve complex problems, prepare detailed plans and proposals, resolve conflicts, and analyze and prioritize issues effectively. They are excellent in situations involving visioning, planning, conflict resolution, team building, and evaluation. Reporting At HAL, we take pride in the reputation we have acquired for writing clear, concise, and objective documents. In the end, the impact of a study depends on the project team's ability to present the findings, conclusions and recommendations in a manner such that external readers can readily focus on and understand the important issues and concepts being reported. |
