Impactful Data

You may find data tedious, time-consuming, only necessary to write grants, or even believe you're not a "data person". If that's the case, this is an invitation to look at things differently.

Why did you decide to create or work for this organization? All the people I know in social services organizations started because they listened to their hearts and almost always the answer to this question is something like "I want to help others" or "I want to change the world." Is that you, too?

Now I ask you: how do you know that you are, in fact, helping others and changing the world? My answer to this question is straightforward: by measuring it. Otherwise, you risk falling into guesswork and even assuming things that are not quite true. Collecting information and reflecting on your results, AKA measuring, is your best tool to check if you are fulfilling your mission. And, trust me, it doesn't have to be painful.

Together, let's look into some of the basics to support you in feeling empowered and comfortable in understanding and talking about your data.

• “The question that matters” encourages you to clarify what you want to measure and why.

• “Find the answers” differentiates between output and outcome to help you be intentional when choosing measures to answer your question.

• “Share your findings” discusses data storytelling, who your audience is, and what you want them to do with your findings.

• “Best practices” supports you throughout your journey with practices grounded in respect and sustainability.

Pick and choose which content is more helpful at this moment, or follow the path from beginning to end.