Defining and Building a Data Use Culture

A data use culture describes the customs, dispositions, and behaviors of a particular group or organization to support and encourage the use of evidence to inform their decision-making. If decision-makers at all levels of the health system use timely, high-quality data to drive planning, performance management, and the delivery of services, we can accelerate health gains and optimize health system efficiency. This white paper outlines how to strengthen a culture of data use through two complementary frameworks and through two real-life case studies of implementing the BID Initiative and the Data Use Partnership in Tanzania.