2. Employment & Training
3. Partners
4. WIOA Title I-A & I-B
5. Policy & Procedure Manual
6. Chapter 11) Performance Accountability and Reporting
7. Supplemental Data Collection Recommended and Proven Practices

WIOA Title I-A & I-B Policy & Procedure Manual



Supplemental Data Collection Recommended and Proven Practice

We recognize the challenges associated with collecting data from former program participants who are no longer obligated to remain in contact with the public workforce and education systems. This section provides practices that maximize collection response rates. The processes have been tried in various program and activities or have been recommended by the federal government.

• Programs should have language in their participant release of information forms that inform the participant that supplemental data from the participant or their employers may be required for outcome reporting to the federal government.
• Discuss the need to collect supplemental data with the participant upon program entry. Remind participants before program exit, they or their employers may be contacted to obtain confirmation of employment status and earnings. Explain the expected timeframe the participant can expect follow-up requests. Explain why supplemental data collection is important for the future of public sector programs:
• "WIOA programs do not charge their participants, such as you, for services. Therefore, the programs can only be justified by demonstrating effectiveness through the success of participants like you."
• "When you provide employment and earnings data, you contribute to research on advancements in how workforce programs can best assist its citizens."
• "The program may be able to assist you further if you are not having the desired success in your new position."
• Utilize methods that participants have been proven to respond best to in other fields.
• Youth and Young Adults have been found to respond to text messages at higher rates than emails or phone calls.
• Adults have been found to respond to emails and direct phone calls at higher rates than text messsages.
• Use language in written communications and vocal tones that are perceived as "welcoming" and "pleasant." Staff should remember program participants hold information that can only improve the program's performance.