Resource Policy

Unpacking Data Use in State TANF Agencies: Insights from the TANF Data Innovation Needs Assessment

Policymakers, program administrators, federal leaders, researchers, and advocates are increasingly focused on using administrative data to build evidence for improving government programs. Achieving this goal requires accessible data sources and the capacity to use them, yet stakeholders have little information about the baseline level of state capacity in these areas. How does one measure concepts…

State TANF agencies routinely use administrative data for program management and decision-making, supported by trained staff and technical resources.

Despite this, they face barriers such as limited staff time, inadequate technology, data access issues, and data quality gaps, which hinder advanced analysis and evidence-based improvements. Addressing these resource and capacity challenges is crucial for enhancing program effectiveness and fostering cross-state collaboration.