Nonprofit Data Storytelling Framework

A collection of labeled icons representing the nine focus areas within the Nonprofit Data Storytelling Framework: Culture, Investment, Frameworks, Collection, Infrastructure, Reviews, Analysis, Communication, and Improvements.

How do community-based human service nonprofits collect and use data effectively? The Data Storytelling Collective has developed the following framework, and a companion self-assessment, to help nonprofits identify their data storytelling strengths and growth areas. The framework’s nine focus areas are grouped into three domains: data strategy, data management, and data use.

Icon of three people circling three hands on top of each other, labeled 'Culture'.

Data Strategy

Nonprofits should value using data for learning and improving service delivery, not just reporting and compliance.

Icon of a hand holding symbols of a person, gear, and dollar sign, labeled 'Investment'.

Nonprofits should invest in staff with data roles and other resources to improve how we manage and use data.

Icon of a gear with puzzle pieces inside, labeled 'Frameworks'.

Nonprofits should develop useful program design, evaluation, and data management frameworks to measure impact.

Icon of a pencil and clipboard with checkmarks, labeled 'Collection'.

Data Management

Nonprofits should have well-designed systems and processes for collecting client data, like forms and surveys.

Icon of three documents feeding into a database, labeled 'Infrastructure'.

Nonprofits should have well-designed systems and processes for cleaning, organizing, and securely storing data.

Icon of a magnifying glass over documents with text, labeled 'Reviews'.

Nonprofits should have well-designed systems and processes for monitoring and reviewing data to ensure utility.

Icon of a grid with a lightbulb inside, labeled 'Analysis'.

Data Use

Nonprofits should effectively analyze data to find insights on program success and opportunities for improvement.

Icon of a document with graphs and text with a lightbulb on top, labeled 'Communication'.

Nonprofits should effectively communicate data insights internally and externally via numbers, visuals, and narratives.

Icon of a person standing next to two upward arrows and a gear with a light bulb inside, labeled 'Improvements'.

Nonprofits should effectively leverage data insights to improve program design, implementation, and outcomes.