Data Demand and Information Use (DDIU)

One of the basic premises of Futures Group’s approach to sustainable development is that “health data and information lack value unless they are used to inform decisions.” Interventions that increase local demand for information and facilitate its use enhance evidence-based decisionmaking. Therefore, data demand and information use (DDIU) are critical to improving the effectiveness and sustainability of the health system.

Since 1979 Futures Group has led the field in using data for decisionmaking on international development, in general, and in public health, in particular. For example, as the prime contractor on a series of USAID-funded projects (RAPID, OPTIONS, POLICY, and HPI), Futures Group has helped introduce the use of evidence in the development of and advocacy for health and population policies around the world. And, as a key partner on the USAID-funded MEASURE Evaluation Project, Futures Group is working globally to increase demand for quality data, methods, and tools and facilitate information use in decisionmaking. Under the project, Futures Group developed the DDIU conceptual framework and tools, which are used to aid policymakers and stakeholders in decisionmaking strategies that are viable, sustainable, and evidence-based decisions.