Data Collection Process

After OCSS outcomes were defined, the next step involved translating the outcome statements into the specific indicators. For each outcome, one or more outcome indicators, that could be measured to track progress toward the outcomes was identified. For example, the percent of increase in the amount of child support collected would be one indicator toward an outcome involving the financial security of families.

The indicators were organized into a framework that outlined the data source, method of collection, person responsible for collection, and the frequency of data collection. Below are the definitions of some data terms used in this report.

Data Collection Timeframe:
Information used in this report was collected between July 1, 2007 and Jan. 31, 2008. Unless otherwise noted, all reported results cover this timeframe.

What is the N?
“N” means the number of people who answered a particular question or were involved in a particular activity. For example, if “N=200” that means that 200 people gave a response to the question.

What are Indicators? 
Outcome indicators are the specific items of information that track a program's success on outcomes. They describe observable, measurable characteristics or changes that represent achievement of an outcome.

What were the Data Sources? 
Information included in this report has been extracted from numerous sources including the existing program records, federally mandated performance measures indicators, reports from new internal outcome measurement survey projects, and a variety of existing program evaluation reports.

Up Next: Preliminary Outcomes Results

<< Back to Table of Contents