📊 How to leverage data & research in program management

Here’s today’s TL;DR:

• Learn why data is key in building the next version of your program

• Read about some of the research that went into the City of Atlanta Workforce Development program

• Check out Resources + Beyoncé

Always follow the data.

“Building for the Next Phase: Leveraging Data for Iterative Improvement,” the Program Playground’s first blog post, is live!

Key Takeaways:

1. Data is your guide: Track program metrics and analyze trends to identify areas for improvement.

2. Assess both internal and external needs: Gather feedback from stakeholders and consider gaps in your program.

3. Prioritize and plan: Categorize improvements as imperative, low-effort, or standard enhancements, then build a roadmap for implementation.

Bonus Tip: Use collaborative tools like FigJam to brainstorm and organize your ideas.

How research helped me build:

Myself, Techsgiving and the City of Atlanta Office of Innovation are launching a program to provide Atlanta residents with free Grow with Google and Coursera certificates. Participants will be part of a multi-month cohort facilitated by experts to learn about a specific role in tech.

Research was a major part of this build. I had to identify challenges related to adult learning + career development and determine how this program could address and resolve them:

• Challenge I: High drop-off rate for self-paced, online learning: The high drop-off rate is often attributed to things like lack of accountability, limited or complex curriculum structure, and the absence of real-time teaching + interaction.

• Resolution: Implement a cohort-learning model. This collaborative learning style allows students to progress through a course or program together, in contrast to self-paced work, which can mitigate issues related to accountability and support.

• Challenge II:Limited adult CTE (career + technical education) programming: CTE prepares students for in-demand careers through technical instruction and internships. But it’s typically taught in high school, leaving a gap for skill development and opportunities for lifelong learners in the workforce.

• Resolution: Offer a comprehensive program that equips adults with the professional development and technical skill set they need to begin their journey in the tech industry.

If you’re stuck, and want to ground yourself within the context of your program, research is a great place to start. For those looking for scholarly articles, Google Scholar is free!

Out of scope:

What I’m listening to, watching, or reading:

Check out these free resources: 

• Are you a student or educator that uses Webflow? Sign up for the free Classrooms program! Students receive a free CMS site plan, and educators receive a free workspace plan. Share this link far and wide in your network!

• Schedule time with me to learn more about program management!