Data-Driven Decision Making: Video Series

Data-driven decision making (DDDM) is a way to determine a course of action based on quality data. It uses data systematically and intelligently to assess, test, and improve a program, activity, or process.

DDDM is about getting the right data to the right people at the right time to effectively use the data to problem-solve and improve performance. It can help child welfare organizations identify and respond to emerging trends and needs among children and families.

This three-part video series shows how a fictional organization, Greene County Department of Human Services, set out to improve permanency for children and youth by increasing the number of available foster and adoptive homes using DDDM.

• Part 1: Introduction and Theory of Change provides an overview of DDDM, explains its importance in the context of human service organizations, and describes the process of developing a theory of change as a first step in the DDDM process.
• Part 2: Collecting and Analyzing Data explores the process of collecting and analyzing data to inform decision making. It describes the creation of data collection and tracking systems, monitoring of activities, and use of data to identify and troubleshoot problems.
• Part 3: Communicating Findings and Making Improvements describes strategies for communicating the findings to key stakeholder groups and using them to solve problems and improve programs.

For a more in-depth look at DDDM, see the accompanying guide.