Research Models

The Center for the Study of Economic Mobility (CSEM) uses cutting edge statistical techniques to find solutions to problems facing Forsyth County. At the heart of its research model, CSEM emphasizes the importance of harnessing the power of businesses, individuals and governments, which we call the B.I.G. idea.

Traditional Research Model, Define, Inquire, collect, analyze, and publish.
CSEM Research Model - Localize, Reveal, Align (which includes Business, Individuals, and Government), Investigate, Pilot, and finally Publish

CSEM conducts research that considers the interest of business, individuals, and government. It promotes policies that align the incentives of each. With the support of all three, such policies are more likely to be successful and bring about real long-term change.

This piece of CSEM’s model highlights our desire to be “on-the-ground,” and focused on our local community. CSEM seeks to target specific issues (e.g. public transportation) happening in identified communities such as East Winston.

CSEM encourages community involvement. Research reveals questions that have not yet been investigated.

In the “Align” stage, research investigates how all three groups can “buy-in” to a particular plan of action. This is challenging, but critical.

Next, we consult relevant studies and formally plan our research study (methods, design, sample, etc.). We further investigate the identified problem and “flesh-out” the details of the phenomenon.

In this stage, we execute as a pilot study, gathering and analyzing data.

From the gathered data and generated results, we publish our findings to various sources (academic journals, community outlets, and public presentations.)

A Venn Diagram showing the intersects of Business (more profit), Individuals (More Income), and Government (more net tax revenue). Where Business and Individuals intersect is Area A. Where Individuals and Government intersect is area B. Where Government and Business intersect is Area C. Where all three intersect is Area D. Area D is the only "non-conflict" space among all these groups

This diagram illustrates how the center stands apart from other research initiatives. CSEM seeks to align the incentives and interests of the three major “players,” which we assume do the following:

Businesses want to maximize their profits (The “B” in B.I.G stands for “Businesses”)
Individuals want to maximize their income (The “I” in B.I.G stands for “Individuals”)
Governments want to maximize their net tax revenue (The “G” in B.I.G stands for “Governments”)