Data-Driven Decision-Making Capacity of State VR Agencies

Authors

• Catherine Ipsen, University of Montana - Research and Training Center on Disability in Rural Communities
• Christopher Clapp, University of Chicago, Chicago
• Jordan A. Costello, University of Montana, Missoula

Document Type

Fact Sheet

Publisher

RTC:Rural

Publication Date

7-2026

Disciplines

Economics | Labor Economics | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Federal agencies are required to use data to support policy and program decisions. This factsheet explores VR capacity to use their data to shape decision-making and develop return on investment (ROI) models.

Keywords

rural, disability, vocational rehabilitation, VR, ROI model

Comments

For further details, see: Clapp, C., Ipsen, C., Garry, C., et al. (2025). Assessing Vocational Rehabilitation Agency Capacity to Engage in Evidence-Based Decision Making. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 63(3). DOI: 10.1177/10522263251376322

Rights

© 2026 RTC:Rural

Granting Agency

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR)

Acknowledgement

The research was supported through a grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR grant number 90IFDV0028). NIDILRR is a Center within the Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents of this report do not necessarily represent the policy of NIDILRR, ACL, or HHS, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

Project Number

90IFDV0028

Recommended Citation

Ipsen, C., Clapp, C. (July 2026). Data-Driven Decision-Making Capacity of State VR Agencies. Missoula, MT: The University of Montana Rural Institute for Inclusive Communities. Retrieved from https://scholarworks.umt.edu/ruralinst_employment/53/