About the MHSC DataIndex

Introduction

What is the DataIndex?

The DataIndex is an up-to-date listing of human services related indicators that MHSC develops, maintains and makes available to the Franklin County community. The DataIndex will be continually expanded and revised, as new indicators are identified and existing ones are updated. Computerization allows MHSC to update data throughout the year, insuring that at any given time the data will be as current as possible. Another feature of the DataIndex is that it allows community agencies to build tailored reports to meet their specific information needs.

The DataIndex is divided into five categories, according to the source of the data, or methodology used to collect it. Categories include:

Census Data - Data based on or projected from the decennial Census.

Funder Inventory - Data provided by federal, state or local funding bodies.

Population Survey - A set of pre-determined questions asked of a sample of a targeted population.

Secondary Data - Includes a variety of statistics, collected on a regular basis, that are generally accepted as reliable indicators of need.

Service Inventory - Service utilization and funding information provided by local service provider agencies.

What is a DataPage?

For each indicator in the DataIndex, information will be made available in the form of a "DataPage", which combines three formats of data presentation:

a graphical description of the data (eg. pie charts, bar graphs, etc.);
a trend statement that describes trends in the data and provides definitions of terms used; and
a table containing the raw data that supports the graph and trend statement. This allows users to make their own calculations.

How do I Request Copies of the DataPages?

To obtain copies, go to the list of DataPages in PIE and choose the one that you want to print. Print using the PrintScreen capabilities of your computer. If you are a graphics-based user you can save the file and print it using your own word processing software.

Selected DataPage graphics are also available in the form of MHSC reports, such as the State of Human Services Report, which provides an overview of demographic, social, economic and public policy trends in Franklin County. These reports will be made available on PIE or by calling MHSC Information Services either by email (admin@pie.mhsc.org) or by phone (224-1336).

What do you Think?

Any comments you may have regarding the DataIndex's format, content, presentation, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Ideas for future DataPages, not already included in the DataIndex, are also welcome. To register questions or comments, please contact the Metropolitan Human Services Commission, 360 S. Third Street, Suite 305, Columbus, Ohio 43215, or email us at admin@pie.mhsc.org.

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