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

This brief addresses both "identifying a problem" and "gathering data and exploring the problem indepth" in the first phase of the Change and Implementation Process.

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.

Identifies the final three steps in the problem exploration process and strategies that can help with analyzing data, root causes and contributing factors of problems, and common mistakes to avoid in problem exploration.

Understand the role of coaching in supporting workers, including coaching functions, effectiveness, models, and strategies.

Learn effective strategies to collect, analyze, and use data related to caseworker visits.

Learn about quality contacts, why they are important, and how an agency can successfully implement them.

Identifies multiple approaches and the five essential functions to developing a theory of change as well as the characteristics of a sound theory of change, common mistakes to avoid in the development process, and strategies to prevent them. 

Get practical information about supporting coordinated strategic and long-term planning.

See how staff can boost their knowledge and skills for engaging families, community providers, and others.

This workbook and video series are part of a collection of resources designed to help agencies use data to explore problems, identify root causes, and choose where to direct efforts to achieve their goals for change and improvement.

Browse casework activities to use before, during, and after a caseworker visit with children, youth, and families.

Learn how supervisors and program managers can assist child welfare caseworkers in conducting quality visits with parents.

Explore how child welfare agencies, legal and judicial stakeholders, prevention partners, and communities can work together to build prevention-focused systems, starting with jurisdictions' 2020–24 Child and Family Services Plans (CFSPs). 

Use this brief to explore actionable strategies for meaningful partner engagement in child welfare agency strategic planning, monitoring, and review processes.