Stepping Toward Better Data

Last month, agencies submitted their scores for the Quarterly Data Quality (QDQ) period encompassing quarter 4 of 2021. As always, the big beneficiaries of better data in the HMIS are the individuals and families that are experiencing homelessness. Better data does help provide a better picture of the situation on the ground. 

It is worth recognizing that, through the efforts of the participating agencies and their dedicated staff, error rates for data elements are decreasing and greater attention is being paid to the impact that data has on effective programming.  

Over the past two years we have seen significant improvement across numerous data elements. For example, one data element that affects whether a client is included in federal reports is Relationship to Head of Household. Two years ago, the statewide error rate for that data element was around 2.5%. While this is impressive on its own, the error rate now has dropped to just below 1%. Other data elements showing improvements include Housing Move-In Date and Destination (Exit). 

As with any endeavor, there is always room for improvement. However, it is also worth recognizing when improvements are made. Better data may not seem like much, but it may reduce the need for a client to re-tell a traumatic story one more time. It may help staff better understand a situation. It may increase the chance for finding a home. 

Your work, step by step, makes a difference.    

HELPFUL HINT 

When you run a QDQ report, you can run one report for multiple providers. This puts all the data in one report and the scores are recorded for each provider. You can still easily filter for specific providers by choosing a row with column headers and type CTRL + L. This will create filters on those column headers. Then, if you wish, you can select certain providers from your list and view only that data.