Evaluation Methods for California UBM Pilots

Evaluations of UBM pilots in Bakersfield, Los Angeles, Oakland, and Stockton involved survey and interview research. Researchers examined how pilots participants utilized program offerings; social, economic, and environmental impacts; and participant experience with and opinions regarding aspects of program design and administration. 

In all four cities, pilot participants were surveyed at the start and end of the UBM programs. Control groups were included in the evaluations of Oakland and Los Angeles pilots to enable a difference-in-difference analysis of pilot outcomes. Researchers also conducted interviews with participants while the pilots were ongoing. In Los Angeles and Stockton, evaluations included analysis of prepaid debit card transactions to document how pilot participants used their UBM funds over time.