Ten parallel human service agencies (five urban and five rural) were compared to identify variations in the service delivery system and to compare the costs of service provision. The agencies responded to approximately 36 questions covering eight major areas and were compared and contrasted, urban versus rural, according to the type of agency. All of the agencies used some form of basic media advertising but felt more marketing was required. All participated in two or more multi-agency collaborative efforts, with the urban agencies generally involved in more such efforts. Advantages were reduction of duplication and utilization of participating agency strengths. Disadvantages were problems in dealing with conflicting personalities and loss of flexibility and control over programs. All agencies were aware of other services for individuals ineligible for their programs and were satisfied with the number of referrals they made and received. The largest differences were found in their identification of priorities due to service gaps and future plans to address them. (These need areas are discussed in detail in five sections, which compare and contrast the 10 agencies by type of service offered. A table provides information regarding service fees, who determines rates, annual operating budgets, and total revenue generated.) (YLB)