Real-time cost analysis, a four-step approach which develops cost figures "from the ground up," yields actual-cost figures for each program service component in sufficient detail to permit comparisons among alternative early intervention approaches and to provide a basis for developing fee structures, Results from the real-time analysis of the Child Success Through Parent Training project are reported for three service components: telephone screening, home screening, and initial developmental assessment. Advantages of the method are discussed, as are implications for management decisions.
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