Organizational behavior management in human services settings: Conducting and disseminating research that improves client outcomes, employee performance, and systems development

Abstract

ABSTRACT Principles and applications of organizational behavior management (OBM) can be incorporated within human services settings to promote applied research that contributes to client outcomes, employee performance, systems development, and other value-added benefits. We describe organizational strategies for building a program of research and dissemination focused on (a) leadership direction and support, (b) assessment of barriers (competing contingencies) to research, (c) integration of research with routine service delivery, (d) formation of research teams, (e) oversight by a research review committee, (f) research training, supervision, and mentorship, (g) incentivizing research participation among employees, and (h) organizational research ethics. Steps and recommendations for implementing these strategies are presented.