State governments collect large amounts of data as they manage a wide range of public programs. Compiling data, however, is not the same as harnessing it. Pew’s research focused on identifying the extent to which states are leveraging their data to inform policy, budgeting, and operational decision-making.

Because the field is so new, no comprehensive source of information exists about how states are using data analytics to drive policy decisions and whether they face common challenges. As states consider how best to invest their resources, state leaders will benefit from research on how their counterparts across the country are using data as a strategic asset to make better decisions.

Our Work

    Opinion

    The Barriers to Shared Data and How to Overcome Them

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    Opinion

    Economic-development incentive policies offer a prime example of the benefits of data-sharing.

    Issue Brief

    Better Programs, Better Results

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    Issue Brief

    This case study focuses on quality assurance monitoring in juvenile justice programs in Washington state—which has led the way in using cutting-edge cost-benefit analysis to guide its budget and policy choices.

    Issue Brief

    Program Assessment: Identifying what works in your state or locality

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    Issue Brief

    Government leaders can improve public outcomes, reduce costs, and increase accountability by ensuring that resources are directed toward effective, cost-beneficial programs. A program assessment, the first component of the larger evidence-based policymaking framework developed by the Pew-MacArthur Results First Initiative, is a three-step process to help policymakers address key questions about their programs.

    Issue Brief

    Results First Clearinghouse Database

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    Issue Brief

    To assist policymakers at all levels of government in identifying programs that can achieve strong outcomes, and making data-driven budget decisions, The Pew-MacArthur Results First Initiative has created the Results First Clearinghouse Database.