Hi there, AEA365! I’m Natalie Joseph, MPH, CPH. I’m a Research & Evaluation Associate Consultant at Mirror Group LLC and the founder of Dots and Data LLC. I am also a recent alumna of the LEEAD program, Cohort 5. As an evaluation consultant and data analyst, I focus on leveraging mixed methods and using a multidimensional thinking lens to enhance data analysis, visualization, and evaluation processes. This approach supports intentional and strategic implementation, facilitating systems change that fosters impactful growth and development within communities.
As evaluators, we navigate complex systems where simple cause-and-effect relationships rarely tell the full story. Intersectionality adds further complexity, as varied identity characteristics create unique experiences and challenges. The more we learn, the more we become aware that there’s more to discover about the different factors at play. Through my practice, I’ve learned that transforming systems requires addressing root causes by changing structures, habits, attitudes, and policies while building strong collaborations among diverse groups.
Rad Resource: The Data Equity Framework
We All Count‘s Foundations of Data Equity course provides a step-by-step approach to identifying and making data process decisions that align with equity priorities. The Data Equity Framework challenges the notion that “data is objective” and helps identify critical decision points in our evaluations that impact equity.
Hot Tips: Embedding Equity in Evaluation Practice
While multidimensional thinking and systems thinking can help us understand complex relationships, data equity ensures we’re transforming these systems in ways that serve everyone equitably.
When blending culturally responsive and equitable evaluation (CREE) with data equity principles, I:
- Ask “whose experience am I centering?” for each analytical decision
- Document decision points in analysis code
- Note when funders’ definitions of success differ from community definitions
- Write analysis plans that explain equity implications
- Include equity considerations in statistical power calculations
Lesson Learned: Progress Over Perfection
While clients and partners often seek quick, ‘objective’ answers, I’ve learned that acknowledging diverse cultural perspectives and contexts leads to more meaningful insights. Ultimately, the journey toward systems change and data equity isn’t about perfection—it’s about meaningful progress. Embracing data equity means we can still value rigorous analysis and statistical significance, while also recognizing how the choices we make in our data practices can shape and influence outcomes thereby creating more equitable systems. In going against the prevailing belief that “numbers don’t lie” and “data is objective”, let’s commit to valuing the data we collect while ensuring it serves everyone equitably, measuring our progress by the lives impacted along the way.
This week’s contributions come from members of AEA’s Leaders in Equitable Evaluation and Diversity (LEEAD) program. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this aea365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the aea365 webpage so that we may enrich our community of practice. Would you like to submit an aea365 Tip? Please send a note of interest to aea365@eval.org . aea365 is sponsored by the American Evaluation Association and provides a Tip-a-Day by and for evaluators. The views and opinions expressed on the AEA365 blog are solely those of the original authors and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the American Evaluation Association, and/or any/all contributors to this site.