Data Demand and Use

(c) Nicole Judice, (c) Dan Williams, MEASURE Evaluation

Health data and information are valuable if they are used to inform decisions. Interventions that increase local demand for information and facilitate its use enhance evidence-based decision making and help make the health system more effective. Activities that foster data demand and use (DDIU) involve a systematic approach that applies proven, effective best practices and appropriate tools to help increase demand for health system data and ensure that the information is used in an evidence-based decision making process.

To support evidence-based decision making, MEASURE Evaluation has developed a conceptual framework and set of tools to aid policymakers and stakeholders in implementing DDIU strategies. In this framework, there is a clear and consistent link between the use of health information and the commitment to improving the quality and availability of data.

The DDIU Framework

The DDIU framework explains the context in which decisions are made and how this context influences the demand for data, the use of information, and the collection and availability of data. The framework also details three key determinants for the successful use of population and health information:

• the technical aspects of data processes and tools
• the behavior of individuals who produce and/or use data
• the system or organizational framework that supports data collection, availability, and use

DDIU is a strategy to address these three determinants. It can be used to identify opportunities for and constraints to effective and strategic data collection, analysis, availability, and use. This strategy begins with an assessment that helps stakeholders, policymakers, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practitioners determine points of entry for DDIU intervention. Once specific needs are identified, DDIU core tools and approaches can be utilized to stimulate data demand, build capacity, and enhance evidence-based decision making.

MEASURE Evaluation is using DDIU tools in countries throughout the world to improve the performance of M&E data systems. A series of case studies in Bangladesh, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, and nine Caribbean countries gives examples of successful DDIU interventions.

In Kenya, for example, MEASURE Evaluation helped facilitate an expanded DDIU approach to support a thorough analysis of the causes of a stagnation in family planning efforts throughout the country.

A Decision Calendar identified opportunities to use secondary analysis of fertility data to support evidence-based decisions about national family planning strategies. The Kenya Division of Reproductive Health utilized the Decision Calendar in focused, evidence-based advocacy for additional resources and funding. As a result, the organization received a government-funded budget line item for family planning supplies for the first time.