1. What is a Disparity Study?

Disparity studies are used to determine whether there is evidence of discrimination in the market in which the State 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

2. What is quantitative 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 women-owned businesses in the State marketplace.

3. What is qualitative data?

Qualitative data is information that business owners provide about their actual experiences with discrimination while doing or attempting to do business with the State, with prime contractors/vendors, and in the private sector. Qualitative data helps explain and lend credence to statistical findings of the disparity study. It also helps identify whether discrimination prevents firms from participating on contracts.

4. Why is it important that business owners participate in the study?

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

5. How can I provide my experiences doing business or attempting to do business in the State marketplace?

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

6. What will the State do with the findings of this Study?

The Maryland General Assembly will be presented with the Study’s findings to determine whether and to what extent the State may use race and/or gender-conscious remedial measures, including the use of the State’s Minority Business Enterprise (“MBE”) Program.