This paper describes two studies that utilize different research methods, one statistical and one non-statistical, conducted by The National Urban League to assess the needs of black communities. The first study, Black Pulse, whose purpose was to assess the conditions and attitudes of black Americans, consisted of a detailed, statistical survey of black households in 118 cities. Resulting data were used to develop an analysis of government income transfer programs. The purpose of the second study, Youth Speak Outs, was to bring attention to the problems facing black youth. It consisted of hearings and subsequent focus groups that elicited data on what youth felt were their most pressing needs. The information youth provided were to be used to help develop service initiatives in an era of reduced Federal spending for social programs. These two studies suggest that both statistical and non-statistical methods have important roles in applied research. In addition, both methods demonstrate the impact of the external changes on the utility of research. Comparing these methods can provide insights to help determine when to do costly, highly structured statistical research and when to do cheap, loosely structured non-statistical research. (JS)