Demographic data standards for state government

In response to Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2022 Executive Order directing state agencies and departments to embed equity analysis into all policies and practices, Possibility Lab researchers are working to develop and test an evidence-based framework to measure and evaluate equity across California. In partnership with California’s Office of Data and Innovation (ODI), the project aims to develop data-informed recommendations for comprehensive demographic data measurement standards. These standards will help the state identify consistently measure existing demographic data with the ultimate goal to uncover equity gaps, assess its progress closing these gaps, and ensure it is making meaningful strides toward achieving social justice.

In Spring 2023, Possibility Lab researchers performed an initial landscape analysis to understand existing research around data standards related to collecting demographic data on race/ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI), and disability. We spoke with nearly 20 experts in the field to better understand best practices and existing evidence for how best to collect this data, particularly when these questions are being asked by state government.

Throughout 2024, the ODI and Possibility Lab team developed, tested, and scaled best practices related to collecting SOGI and disability data, with the goal of making clear recommendations to establish statewide data collection and measurement standards. We also evaluated opportunities for the state to translate complex legal passages and other government documents into “plain language” that can improve public understanding of government reports, policies, and other communications.