The University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy Program Evaluation Research Unit has a great deal of experience in several different areas. A brief description of each of those areas follows.

I. Data and Programming

Database Development: The Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) has extensive knowledge utilizing Microsoft Structured Query Language (SQL) for the creation and management of large databases. For smaller scale projects, PERU utilizes Microsoft Access. PERU is currently exploring new database technologies including MySQL and PostgreSQL.

Application Development: PERU utilizes .NET technologies for both Windows-based and Web-based application development. Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is used to integrate the Microsoft Office Suite for smaller scale Windows applications. PERU is currently exploring PHP and JavaScript technologies for developing Web applications.

Paper-based Data: Paper-based data collection is managed utilizing Teleform® scanning software. An existing fax line is dedicated to the collection of data for storage on the SQL Server.
Reporting: Report design and production is accomplished via Crystal Reports, a widely used reporting software package. This software has many options for enhanced formatting to enable custom report development.
GEO-Mapping: Using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, PERU has the ability to plot client data on maps for targeted areas.

II. Evaluation
PERU staff has extensive experience in the following program evaluation activities.
Survey and other questionnaire development, Conducting follow-up interviews, including the production of tracking reports which indicate clients due for interviews, and locating clients that have been “lost” to the system due to moving, homelessness, etc.
Quantitative data collection and appropriate moderate to complex statistical analyses using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Qualitative data collection and analyses of large bodies of textual, graphical, audio and video data using ATLAS.ti software, facilitation of focus groups, including script development, one-on-one key informant interviews and script development.

III. Miscellaneous

Grant Application Preparation: PERU staff is accomplished in the research, writing, formatting, and submission of grant applications to various funding sources (e.g., government, private foundations, etc.). In this capacity PERU staff also prepares literature reviews and detailed project budgets, including budget justifications.

IRB: PERU has experience in the preparation of all relevant grant documents as required by the University Institutional Review Board (IRB).

Certified Honest Broker: In its role as a Certified Honest Broker, PERU serves as disinterested intermediary between the researcher and the individual whose data are being studied ensuring that the investigator is not interacting with those individuals nor recording any identifiable information about them.