The CPO is requesting proposals for the assessment of the CPO’s internal database and data to develop the structure and outputs for the agency’s data program. The CPO seeks to contract with a third-party entity that has experience in reviewing similar data systems and creating realistic and timely expectations for a new internal program.
Currently, the Office of the Colorado Child Protection Ombudsman struggles to inform agencies, stakeholders and the public about the many concerning issues that impact the child protection system. While the agency does provide general information in its annual report, the information is often based on anecdotal evidence and broad, high-level data from the CPO’s internal database. A data program would aid the agency in its efforts to build and implement an external reporting system. The CPO envisions building a reporting system that can timely and consistently inform professionals working with children and family about gaps and needed improvements in the state’s child protection system.
In addition, to enhance the CPO’s ability to report to external agencies and partners, the CPO needs to build a system that also measures the effectiveness of its internal programs including developing quality assurance standards. The CPO wants to analyze its data to ensure that it is serving Colorado citizens in the most efficient and effective way possible. To do this, the CPO requires a third-party consultant that can help the agency establish what type of data best captures client experiences in the child protection system, including its experiences with the CPO.
Based on research completed by the CPO, many other independent agencies housed within the Colorado Judicial Branch have similar systems and staff.
However, in researching the essential functions for the position, it became clear that prior to hiring the new data analyst, the agency must first establish the program that position will work within.