Low-Burden, Youth-Centered Data Reflection Tool
A team-based guide for designing data collection that is useful, manageable, and aligned with program goals.
Strong evaluation doesn’t require collecting more data—it requires collecting data that is useful, respectful, and aligned with how programs operate.
This tool is designed to help teams step back and make thoughtful decisions about what data to collect, how to collect it, and what’s worth letting go, so that data supports learning, improvement, and meaningful understanding rather than adding unnecessary burden.
Who is This For?
This tool is designed for staff, program leaders, and teams in youth-serving organizations who are making decisions about what data to collect and how to collect it. It is especially useful for teams that want to reduce data burden while still gathering meaningful information to support learning, improvement, and communication.
What’s Included?
The tools guides teams through a series of reflection prompts to help clarify purpose, align data with program goals, prioritize what matters most, and choose approaches that fit their context. It is designed to support team conversations and lead to practical decisions about whether to proceed, simplify, pilot, or pause data collection efforts.