The Research and Planning Services Division provides data retrieval and analysis for a variety of stakeholders, statistical reporting to a number of County and State entities, and survey design and implementation. Staff is also responsible for strategic planning and Managing for Results reporting and coordination. In the future, this Division will become involved in program evaluation, statistical analysis and research into best practices and trends.

Maricopa County has experienced remarkable population growth for decades, and will continue to do so. But while expanding metro areas tend to pay close attention to physical infrastructure—diligently budgeting for roads, sewers, schools and the like—there is often a relative lack of attention to meeting the future demands for human services. Relying on the expertise from throughout the College of Public Programs, this report analyzes 12 critically important topics, including children and families, poverty, substance abuse, and Latinos.