Related Experiment Videos
Comment: federal statistical coordination
The Milbank Memorial Fund Quarterly. Health and Society
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Improving federal statistics requires engaging data users, not just statisticians. Achieving higher performance standards relies on practical compromises rather than top-down directives for better government data coordination.
Area of Science:
- Governmental Affairs
- Statistical Science
Background:
- Federal statistical coordination faces criticism regarding government structure, funding, personnel, and policy.
- There is a recognized need for higher performance standards in federal statistics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore effective strategies for improving federal statistical coordination.
- To identify mechanisms for achieving higher performance standards in federal data collection and dissemination.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of common criticisms and aspirations related to federal statistical systems.
- Evaluation of the potential impact of user mobilization versus statistical arguments.
- Consideration of the role of compromise in policy implementation.
Main Results:
- Mobilizing data users is identified as a more effective strategy than relying solely on statisticians' arguments for improving federal statistics.
- Achieving higher performance standards necessitates practical compromises rather than strict mandates.
Conclusions:
- Improving federal statistical coordination and performance is best achieved through collaboration with data users and judicious compromises.
- Top-down directives are less effective than user engagement and negotiated solutions for enhancing government data quality.