Enhancing the Use of Administrative Data Through Cross-Sector Collaboration for Evidence-Based Policymaking

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Abstract

This roundtable on leveraging state and federal administrative data will convene experts from the federal and state government agencies, academia, and the nonprofit sector to explore how integrated data systems can advance data-driven policymaking. Speakers will focus on the expanding opportunities to link administrative datasets across key domains such as workforce, education, and social services, with the goal of generating more comprehensive insights into program effectiveness, population needs and advancing data-driven policymaking.

While the use of federal data typically focuses on retrospective, large-scale academic research, broad evaluations, and national trends, state governments can apply administrative data operationally in timelier and more targeted ways to address local challenges and improve service delivery. These different approaches, though distinct, work together to provide a more comprehensive and dynamic understanding of policy impacts, ultimately enriching the evidence base for decision-making at all levels of government.

In addition to highlighting these advances, a central theme will be the challenge of capacity building—many agencies and organizations continue to face limitations in technical expertise, staffing, and infrastructure that hinder their ability to effectively manage, analyze, and operationalize complex administrative data. Another growing struggle is the pressure on federal datasets stemming from falling budgets, declining staffing levels, and reduced survey response rates, which can pose challenges to maintaining the consistency and robustness of critical public data sources. Collaboration with academia and nonprofits can play a vital role in empowering government agencies to navigate these challenges, offering valuable support and innovative solutions that help bridge critical gaps. By tapping into the specialized knowledge, technological resources, and innovative approaches that external partners bring, agencies can enhance their data management capabilities, improve their analytical tools, and expand their ability to deliver more impactful services to citizens. Through promising initiatives and real-world case studies, speakers will illustrate how such partnerships have led to more effective outcomes, showcasing the value of cross-sector collaboration in driving better public policy.

Policy Area

• Methods and Tools of Analysis

Secondary Policy Area

• Public and Nonprofit Management and Finance

Moderator

• Didem Tuzemen, Coleridge Initiative

Organizer

• Didem Tuzemen, Coleridge Initiative

Speakers

• Till Marco von Wachter, University of California - Los Angeles

• Danielle H Sandler, U.S. Census Bureau

• Jake Walker, Arkansas Division of Information Systems-ARData Team

• Ahu Yildirmaz, Coleridge Initiative