While the tools require only minimal computer experience, they do require a good understanding and knowledge of HIV prevention efforts and program operations. These tools, which were developed independently, do not necessarily work together because they each address different stages of investigation and decision making; nor do they make decisions for you. However, they can help you put information into perspective to assist in making the tough decisions required when allocating limited resources.

Each tool has a user’s guide describing necessary inputs and how to use the software, including how to apply and understand the results. The users’ guides also provide specific set-up information that you’ll need to know before the tools will run properly. For example, the HIV Prevention Funding Allocation Model (HPFAM) must be able to run macros and use the Excel Solver. Please see the user’s guide for complete information before you open the HPFAM.xls file. Also, once you begin using the tools by entering in your own data, you may want to keep a copy of the files to save your work, using different file names each time you save a copy. All of the items can be freely copied and shared; however, the tools have many embedded formulas, which, if modified, would affect their operation and therefore the results. Be sure to pass on only the original files, and always include the user’s guides.

We appreciate your interest in these cost-effectiveness tools and hope you find them helpful.