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.
State and county policymakers can improve outcomes, reduce costs, and increase accountability when they systematically review available evidence on the effectiveness of public programs—what Results First calls program assessment. Included on this page are links to 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.