FAQ

We determine problems by first understanding client needs. We tailor our approach to suit the concerns or dilemmas of a client (e.g., a governmental agency, nonprofit, or corporation). From there, we conduct evaluations on programming, implementation, strategy, or problematic work climates through qualitative reasoning, although client needs can vary. We find that work commonly requires us to pay close attention to efficiency, effectiveness, and equity.

We specialize in Title I school management, stakeholder needs, as well as curriculum. We also mediate internal or external school conflict that can arise between teachers, students or the public. This is often referred to as stakeholder engagement, management, and communication. Additionally, we use our own sustainable educational methodology as a blueprint to create specialized training for specific school staff. We simply need an honest overview of the challenges that exist within the school environment (internally or externally) and proceed to formulate a training plan to eliminate inefficiencies or conflict.

Our work incorporates numbers and narrative, although qualitative data is our primary method to establish feasible solutions for our clients. Qualitative research is the most effective way to investigate the meaning of numerical data and to help clients avoid cyclical failure, which occurs when problem analysis only scratches the surface - leaving analysis gaps. Think of numerical data as the pages of a book, and qualitative analysis as the story printed on those pages: you can’t truly have one without the other. However, establishing an accurate narrative is what sets our consulting approach apart. Narrative clarity is not only a process, it is a deliverable. We are highly skilled at capturing multiple narratives and differentiating competing interests that cloud for-profit or nonprofit endeavors.

It does not matter whether you are a for-profit company or a nonprofit organization - we are an interdisciplinary consulting company and understand the need to bring in profit just as much as we understand mission-related objectives. In terms of the difference between method and approach, in the qualitative paradigm, a method is how information is collected and approach refers to the perspective (or philosophical position) of the researcher-consultant collecting the information. Our client specific method(s) and research approaches make our plans invaluable because they are need-centric. We do not rush to identify “problems” per se, although problems do emerge immediately once the work begins. An effective solution cannot be implemented without accurately assessing needs.

Consider this scenario: you are a nonprofit client who seeks out InterMediate’s help to determine how your constituent needs have changed over time. In a case like this, we may determine that interviewing is the best method and that an interpretative approach is most effective in that data collection. Interpretative is defined as an approach used by a qualitative researcher to seek meaning from small interactions and can reveal the subjectivity of participants. In another example, a client might desire us to compare feedback or evaluate impact over a certain number of years, also known as longitudinal data; in this case, a post-positivist approach is likely more appropriate.

Yes. Clients are always provided details about our strategy and often help us determine what strategies are feasible. There are no surprises when it comes to the working agreement and activity schedule. Should any issues arise, we will immediately open a dialogue with the client to evaluate and assess any additional actions that might be needed at that time.

Change agency is usually not a solo act. Crafting solutions should be done with a client organization’s full cooperation and assistance wherever deemed necessary. We structure work projects in a variety of collaborative ways, as long as it supports client objectives. We are our client’s third-party ally - an intermediary with every intention and skill set to bolster your talent and expand you and your organization’s ability.

In short, yes. InterMediate can “weigh in” on issues that can help leaders make sense of external or internal criticism and bring forward smarter decisions for their company or nonprofit. Our advising packages are flexible to address short-term and long-term advising needs.

Most definitely! In fact, we have yet to find a group in need that we cannot help. We maintain that every situation and group is indeed unique, but one of InterMediate’s strengths is our ability to adapt. When we identify a need, our team is able to quickly change up its approach to bring our best effort to bear on our client’s challenges.