Resource Library

Discover how to examine and drill down into state data to build understanding of what’s happening in your child welfare system.

Explore how frontline child welfare professionals can use data and evidence in their everyday practice. 

Explore how legal and judicial professionals can use data and evidence in their everyday practice. 

Explore how child welfare leaders, managers, and supervisors can motivate their staff to use data and evidence in their everyday practice. 

Explore considerations for equitable, inclusive, and data-driven problem exploration.

Explore considerations for collaboratively developing an equitable theory of change.

Introduces the fourth task of identifying possible contributing factors and root causes using different methods. A root cause analysis is a structured approach to understand why a problem occurs using data. Understanding why a problem or unmet need exists helps teams better identify the potential solutions to it.

Presents the second task, identifying a long-term outcome, and provides examples of how to apply strategies. Identifying a long-term outcome that is specific, achievable, and understandable helps teams establish a goal that is focused, feasible, and clear.

Learn about theory of change and why it is critical to implementing effective changes to improve outcomes. 

Explores the fifth task of exploring possible root causes and using data to validate them. Taking time to revisit data, helps teams align on true root cause(s) before moving towards possible solutions.

Examines the third task, developing the pathway or pathways of change to reach the long-term outcome, and provides examples of how to apply strategies. Casual links connect the root cause(s) of the problem to the long-term outcome, and “tell the story of how success will be recognized” at each level in the pathway.

Presents the sixth and final task, isolating the root cause or causes to address. By isolating, or selecting, the root cause or causes to address as part of a change initiative, teams are able to consider feasible solutions to address the problem.

Presents the fifth task, documenting assumptions and rationale, and provides examples of how to apply strategies. A clear, concise narrative can help to engage stakeholders, decision makers and potential funders in future steps to address the root cause and problems identified.

Explore information and strategies for advancing racial equity through problem exploration.

Identifies the first three steps in the problem exploration process and examines the importance of data, key components of a data plan, and common mistakes to avoid in identifying problems in child welfare.