ROMA: Frequently Asked Questions

What is ROMA?  A framework for marrying traditional management functions with the new focus on accountability.   It is the common language for CAAs to use to respond to the Government Performance and Results Act of 1993, which requires that federally funded programs demonstrate measurable outcomes.

Do I have to do all the goals?: Each state must report on at least one measure under each of the six National Goals.  The states have flexibility in determining how many measures agencies report on.  Many states have worked jointly with local agencies to develop a small number of measures to be reported on in a uniform manner.

Is ROMA specific to the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), or can I use ROMA with other funding sources, too?   While the six National Goals relate specifically to the CSBG legislation, the concepts, organizing framework, definitions, and tools of ROMA can be readily used for many funding sources.

What does OCS want? The Office of Community Service wants states and local agencies to increase their capacity to function in a results-oriented environment in order to comply with GPRA.  OCS respects the complexity of the Community Action network, and understates that a one-size ROMA process does not fit all local needs, priorities, and variations in local agency operations.

What does the form look line? The CSBG IS Committee designed "Section O" of the annual NASCSP IS Survey to collect outcome information.  A draft, containing three narrative questions and tables for each of the six National Goal, was circulated for comment.  The final document was released to local agencies at NACAA's Nashville Conference in September, 1997.

How am I going to pay for all this?  How am I going to track all those emergency service clients to find out what happens to them?   Measuring outcomes does not need to be expensive.  ROMA represents a framework containing many options for selecting specific outcomes and measuring actual results.   Agencies should pick and choose the parts of ROMA that are appropriate for them.   Agencies are encouraged to use common sense in selecting outcomes and measuring systems that are appropriate to the agency's current and emerging capacities.   Agencies are encouraged to explore sampling formulas and inter-agency data sharing techniques for highly mobile emergency service clients.