Strategic Plan: Accountability Framework

In the framework we have constructed two "dashboards," or systems to monitor information. The first, a "change dashboard," is to monitor the change we are trying to affect in communities as we move towards the Commission's four goals. As mentioned in the "pathways" article (click here to see the pathways article) First 5 LA hopes to make change through a series of smaller accomplishments called "intermediate outcomes" which create a "pathway" to meeting the four Commission goals. The dashboard will track changes within those intermediate indicators, or steps in the pathway, as well as changes in our long-term goals.

We are also crafting an "organizational performance" dashboard, to help us stay focused on implementing and supporting the priority measures and the Commission's four goals. Through the dashboard we will evaluate the extent to which organizational decisions are made with the intent of reaching the Commission's goals. We will also evaluate how First 5 LA functions, both internally and as a partner to other organizations. 

Other elements of the accountability framework include the following:

• Evaluation and Learning - We will evaluate the impact of First 5 LA strategies on children and families, particularly in our four priority goal areas and also intermediate outcomes.
• Research Agenda - We will contribute to the research on the 0-5 population and capacity building, and identify research questions relevant to the strategic plan.
• Data Systems Integration - We will facilitate the collection, integration and use of data including the collection of data pertaining to the priority measures within and beyond First 5 LA.

The accountability framework will also be a tool for improving First 5 LA strategies.  "This new strategic plan affords our organization an opportunity to take a closer look at how we make change in these communities," said Armando Jimenez, director of the Research and Evaluation Department at First 5 LA. "Through our dashboard and other accountability efforts, we will be able to tell a coherent story over time about the children and families in the communities we serve, and we will be able to use this information to improve our strategies."

To learn more about First 5 LA's Accountability Framework, contact Teryn Mattox at (213) 482-7516.

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