Data and information systems, such as the Comprehensive Child Welfare Information Systems (CCWIS), play a crucial role in child welfare. Developing and implementing case management systems and data collection tools that meet not only Federal reporting requirements, but also the information needs of an organization helps inform management decisions and support caseworkers' interactions with children, youth, and families. By analyzing and using the data the information systems collect, organizations can enhance program efficiency and improve outcomes for the families they serve. In addition, information sharing among agencies that serve families helps reduce data collection efforts and improve cross-system collaboration and the coordination of services. The following resources address the use of information systems and data in child welfare:
- Planning and implementing an information system
- Collecting data
- Improving data quality
- Using data to inform program improvement
- Using data to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families
- Information sharing