Progress Together: Becoming Data Driven

The promise of using data to make more informed decisions seems simple. Consumers make data-driven decisions every day when buying household goods, booking hotels, or choosing where to eat. Businesses use data every day to determine the ads we see, the best location for expansion, or the cost of their services. But using data to drive decisions about social programs continues to remain out of reach for many policymakers and program administrators at all levels.

The stakes are high. The data are messy. The systems are old. But the pressure is on. Civil servants and community organizations are being asked to do more with less and, often, just keeping things running is hard enough. Many conversations about the promise of using data to drive decisions lead with new steps, new requirements, new staff, and new expectations that are simply out of reach for too many.

Mathematica brought together leaders from a variety of sectors to discuss the challenges of becoming data driven and offer action-oriented, accessible advice on how organizations can take their first steps, or their next steps, to progress together. This is the first in a series of in-person and online conversations throughout 2019 dedicated to data-driven progress. All in-person guests are encouraged to attend a networking reception following the discussion.

Featured panelists

Christina Becker, health policy and program associate, American Public Human Services Association

Paul Decker, president and CEO, Mathematica

Connor Norwood, chief data officer, Indiana Family and Social Services Administration

Veronica Olazabal, director of measurement, evaluation & organizational performance, The Rockefeller Foundation

Clarence Wardell, director of city solutions, Results for America

At Mathematica, we work with our partners from inquiry to insight, shining a light on the ways data and evidence can serve to make a difference in people’s lives. We understand the complexities of government data systems and the particular privacy requirements of working within the public sector. But we also know that the biggest hurdle to becoming data driven is getting started. No matter where you are on your journey, we’ve been there before and can offer the insights and expertise to get you moving.