Evidence at the U.S. Department of Labor

The U.S. Department of Labor is a recognized leader in the Federal Government for its evidence-building institutions, with strong capabilities in statistics, program evaluation, performance measurement, policy analysis, and data governance. DOL invests in evidence-building activities to ensure that accurate, timely, and objective data inform our mission: “To foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.”

What is Evidence?

The Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Evidence Act) and the Office of Management and Budget describes four interdependent components of evidence: foundational fact finding, policy analysis, program evaluation and performance measurement.

Foundational
Fact Finding

Foundational research and analysis such as aggregate indicators, exploratory studies, descriptive stastics, and basic research

Program
Evaluation

Systematic analysis of a program, policy, organization or a component of these to assess effectiveness and efficiency

Performance
Measurement

Development, analysis, and reporting of performance measures and milestones related to the achievements of strategic goals and objectives

Policy
Analysis

Analysis of data, such as general purpose survey or program-specific data, to generate and inform policy (e.g. estimating regulatory impact and other relevant effects.

Find information and resources on the Department of Labor’s evidence infrastructure, including relevant statutory requirements, evidence-building plans, and other ongoing activities conducted collaboratively across and within agencies in the Department.

Department of Labor and the Evidence Act

The Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Evidence Act) requires federal agencies to work together to make data and research available to those who need it.

Learn More about the Department of Labor and the Evidence Act

News

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  Office of Data Governance launches new website

  Learn more about the office
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  Learn how the Chief Evaluation Office supports academic research

  Read more
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  Department of Labor Evaluation Policy Guides Research of Policy and Programs

  Read DOL's Evaluation Policy