Verdict
Mix both. Groups compress costs and build community; 1-to-1 personalises outcomes and builds loyalty. Most providers should offer both.
NDIS Comparison
Group Programs vs 1-to-1 Supports
Mix both. Groups compress costs and build community; 1-to-1 personalises outcomes and builds loyalty. Most providers should offer both.
Group Programs
Best for: Providers serving multiple participants with similar goals simultaneously
Pros
- Lower per-participant cost
- Build peer community and friendship
- More efficient staff scheduling
- Participants often prefer social environment
- Higher margin if designed right
Cons
- Less personalised outcomes
- Harder to address individual goals in group
- Challenging behaviour can derail group
- Less data per participant for outcomes
1-to-1 Supports
Best for: Providers matching participants to individual support workers
Pros
- Highly personalised support and goals
- Participant gets dedicated relationship
- Easier to progress toward independence
- Better data for outcomes tracking
- Stronger retention
Cons
- Higher per-participant cost
- Less scalable (1 worker = 1 participant)
- Can't build peer community