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Home > Systemwide > Information Systems and Data > Using Data to Inform Program Improvement
Using Data to Inform Program Improvement
Organizations that collect data on service provision and child and family outcomes can use it to analyze the effectiveness of their programs and consider adapting services, policies, and procedures as necessary. The following resources explore how the use of data informs program improvements, including State and local examples.
AFCARS Toolkit
National Resource Center for Child Welfare Data and Technology (2004)
Provides an orientation to the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS) and links to key materials related to the collection of quality data that can be used to address policy development and program management issues at State and Federal levels.
Child Welfare and Technology (PDF - 1390 KB)
Bissell & Miller
Children's Voice, 16(4), 2007
Examines barriers to the implementation of new technology, offers technological strategies for using data to predict and improve outcomes, and profiles types of child welfare data systems.
Collecting and Using Data for Organizational Learning
Cherin (2004)
In Supervision as Collaboration in the Human Services: Building a Learning Culture
View Abstract
Explores concepts and frameworks for data use and offers tools to create and sustain an active and continuous learning system.
Continuous Quality Improvement in Agency Practice
Baker & Charvat (2008)
In Research Methods in Child Welfare
View Abstract
Discusses five integral factors of continuous quality improvement and the importance of a data collection system that allows an agency to monitor, understand, and improve continually all aspects of service delivery and documentation.
Improving Social Work Practice Through the Use of Technology and Advanced Research Methods
Schwartz, Jones, Schwartz, & Obradovic (2008)
In Child Welfare Research: Advances for Practice and Policy
View Abstract
Reviews the use of technology in social welfare, discusses promising technological developments, explores the potential of actuarial risk assessment, and describes an innovative computational process for predicting the recurrence of child maltreatment.
Nothing In Nothing Out: Barriers to the Use of Performance Data in Social Service Programs
Carrilio, Packard, & Clapp
Administration in Social Work, 27(4), 2003
View Abstract
Discusses the effects of leadership, attitudes, accountability expectations, and organizational culture on how programs collect and use data, based on the findings of a multisite statewide evaluation of an information system for a State-funded family support program.
Using Information Technology in Planning Program Evaluation
Leslie, Holosko, & Dunlop
Journal of Evidence-Based Social Work, 3(3/4), 2006
View Abstract
Discusses the importance of using information technology for evidence-based program evaluation, outlines field-tested technologies used in the evaluation planning process, and makes recommendations for program coordinators and evaluators.
Why We Should Develop Automated Judicial Performance Measurement in Child Abuse and Neglect Cases
American Bar Association (2002)
View Abstract
Explains the importance of automated systems in providing objective and concrete data to courts regarding their performance and the number of children returned home safely or adopted.
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State and local examples
Continuous Quality Improvement: Integrating Client Outcome Data Into Ongoing Service Design and Delivery Using SACWIS and Other Data
Tindall & Metz
Protecting Children, 18, 2004
View Abstract
Profiles the functionality of Arkansas's statewide child welfare database and explains how the State uses reports from the system to inform continuous quality improvement in child welfare.
The Effects of Computerization on Public Child Welfare Practice
Weaver, Moses, Furman, & Lindsey
Journal of Social Service Research, 29(4), 2003
View Abstract
Explains how a new case-based management information system affected casework practices in two California counties.
Leveraging Data to Enhance Management Outcome (PDF - 907 KB)
Arnold-Williams
Policy and Practice, 63, 2005
Describes a comprehensive approach the Utah Department of Human Services used to invest in technology for better data generation and analysis for enhanced capacity to monitor and manage its programs.
The Role of Data Collection and Evaluation in Supporting Systems Change (PDF - 49 KB)
Research and Training Center on Family Support and Children's Mental Health (2007)
Focuses on the role of evaluation and research in guiding Nevada's efforts to reform mental health services offered within the child welfare system.
Using Outcome Data to Improve Adoption Practice
Cohick, Kovacevic, & Biesecker
Protecting Children, 18, 2004
View Abstract
Describes the efforts of the Pennsylvania Statewide Adoption Network to systematically identify and assess public and private agency adoption practices with the goal of improving permanency outcomes for children.
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