Disparity studies are used to determine whether there is evidence of discrimination in the market in which the County does business that would permit the use of policies to eliminate discrimination and remedy its effects. Studies involve the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data.

Quantitative data is numerical, measurable, and other quantifiable information that is analyzed using mathematical and statistical modeling. Among other things, the quantitative analyses in a disparity study will include a comparison of the availability and utilization of minority- and female-owned businesses in the County marketplace.

Qualitative data is information that business owners provide about their actual experiences with discrimination while doing or attempting to do business with the County, with prime contractors/vendors, and in the private sector. Qualitative data helps explain and lend credence to the statistical findings of the disparity study. It also helps identify the effect of race and gender on businesses’ ability to participate on contracts.

Business owners that do business, or want to do business, in the County’s marketplace are impacted by the County’s policies, procedures, and guidelines. Participation in this Study allows business owners to provide first-person accounts of their experiences in the marketplace. Input from the business community may help the County better understand whether discrimination poses barriers for businesses and, if so, how best to eliminate that discrimination and remedy its effects.

All businesses interested in participating are encouraged to provide voicemail, email, and/or other comments. Please see the Contact Us page for details.

The Montgomery County Council will be presented with the Study’s findings to determine whether and to what extent the County may use race and/or gender-conscious remedial measures, including the use of the County’s Minority, Female, and Disabled Business Enterprise (“MFD”) Program.