Evidence-Based Policymaking: Outcome Monitoring

This page was updated March 23, 2020 to include new articles.

In 2014, the Pew-MacArthur Results First Initiative identified five key components of evidence-based policymaking: program assessment, budget development, implementation oversight, outcome monitoring, and targeted evaluation. Taking into consideration and implementing one or more of these components can help states and counties use the Results First evidence-based policymaking framework in ways that yield meaningful changes for their communities.

Policymakers can use performance management systems to make government more efficient and effective and ensure that public programs are achieving the results that constituents expect, what Results First calls outcome monitoring. Included below are links to issue briefs, fact sheets, and other resources. Along with explanatory documents, this section highlights how select states and counties approach this critical component of evidence-based policymaking.

Strategy: Identify appropriate objectives, measures, and benchmarks

• Maryland County Revamps Performance Measures for Youth Mentoring Programs
• Maryland Works With Government Agencies to Track Program Performance

Strategy: Analyze and report targeted performance information

• Performance Tools Help Illinois Leaders Assess State Programs
• Vermont Performance Reporting Tools Promote Accountability and Improvement

Strategy: Create opportunities to make better use of performance data

• Washington State Leaders Collaborate to Improve Government Performance
• Colorado and Its Counties Work Together to Improve Human Services Programs

Strategy: Coordinate and combine outcome monitoring with other evidence-based policymaking efforts

• Minnesota Uses Targeted Performance Data to Inform Budget Decisions