A multi-program cost analysis and planning model for social service programs

Social service administrators and planners in both the private and public sector are increasingly being held fiscally and programmatically accountable by both sponsors and consumers of services. This paper provides an examination of the trend toward program budgeting and its various techniques which can assist the administrator-planner in developing a more accountable program. A specific approach to cost analysis and planning for multi-program social service agencies is explored through its application in an actual agency setting. The model's application to other social service programs is also discussed.