How to order a test is hardly as easy as buying milk.  For one thing, information isn’t as available.  For another, professionally accepted tests cost, whereas public domain tests like the MAST are free.  Most assessment specialists, psychometrists and experienced evaluators agree that public domain tests do not meet contemporary professional standards.  And, some tests are limited to one area of inquiry like substance abuse, whereas others are multiple scaled and assess substance abuse along with other important behaviors.

            Even Ph.D.s’ have difficulty getting the facts on many tests.  And, doing it yourself can be tricky.  But these efforts can be worthwhile.  Aside from speed, accuracy and convenience -- automated (computer- scored) tests offer terrific value.

            A big obstacle in many test searches is cost or more specifically, how cost is presented.  Some tests quotes are deceiving.  An obvious analogy is buying dinner at an à la carte restaurant. They are usually more expensive because they separately  price each part of your meal.  If you want to order à la carte that's OK. Just be aware of all the costs you will be incurring.

            With regard to tests (evaluations, screening and assessments), we have similar choices: à la carte (item by item billing) or one Test Unit Fee that incorporates everything.  Click on the Test Unit Fee (Cost) link for Risk & Needs' billing information.  The one Test Unit Fee includes test booklets, answer sheets, training manuals, staff training, test upgrades, test tutorials (for several tests), support services, optical scanner scoring, ongoing research, annual summary reports, etc.  All tests are available in English and Spanish.  And there are no setup expenses or hidden costs.

            How can you order Risk & Needs tests?  You’re on the How To Order webpage, which explains an easy to use e-mail test ordering procedure.  If this is your first order, we recommend you click on and read the New Client Orders instructions before placing your order.  And, if you are an established Risk & Needs test user or want to talk with a staff person when ordering, call (602) 234-3506.  Risk & Needs' fax number is (602) 266-8227 (fax is on 24 hours), and our e-mail address is hhl@riskandneeds.com.  Risk & Needs is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.