Program data is valuable only when it can be turned into insights that help teams make better decisions. Yet, many nonprofits struggle with scattered data, unclear data needs, or systems that make it difficult to analyse and use data effectively. This resource explores how organisations can build a practical data + AI process — starting with the right questions, identifying the data needed, and strengthening how data is collected, managed, and analysed.

The resource also explores how AI and other tools can support data analysis and decision-making responsibly, helping organisations move from collecting data to generating timely, actionable insights.

With this resource, you will be able to:

1. Start with the right questions: Learn how to identify the questions that program teams need data to answer and determine what data is needed to inform decisions.
2. Strengthen data practices: Explore practical approaches to collecting, managing, and analysing program data more effectively.
3. Turn data into insights: Understand how better data practices can support programme decisions, funder reporting, accountability, and impact storytelling.
4. Explore AI responsibly: Identify where AI and other tools can support data analysis and decision-making while considering responsible use.
5. Move from data to action: Take away a practical framework for moving from data → insights → action within your organisation.

This resource is recommended for programme, MEL, monitoring, and data professionals, as well as data leaders in NGOs and development organisations who collect, manage, or use programme data and want to make it more useful for decision-making.