Data Modernization Primer and Tactical Guides
June 09, 2025
Public health data modernization is a collective effort by federal, state, local, and tribal organizations to strengthen public health data and surveillance systems. The ultimate goal is to move from siloed public health data systems to a connected, resilient, adaptable, and sustainable “response ready” data ecosystem.
The primer provides state and territorial health officials with a high-level understanding of the objective and significance of data modernization as well as the roles that they play in a successful data modernization initiative. The five tactical guides detail key strategies and tactics for implementing and maintaining data modernization initiatives within public health agencies.
Data Modernization Primer
Guide for State and Territorial Health Officials
This resource focuses on executive-level strategies while still emphasizing the role of a public health agency within the state/territory infrastructure. It provides health officials with a high-level understanding of the objective and significance of data modernization as well as their functions in leading successful data modernization efforts.
Data Modernization Tactical Guides
These five tactical guides detail key actions for executing data modernization strategies within public health agencies, from planning, implementing, and sustaining activities to building a workforce and collaborating with partners.
Planning Data Modernization Activities
This guide provides key strategies and tactics for planning data modernization activities within a state, tribal, local, or territorial public health agency. This guide covers strategies for mobilizing a team, conducting current state assessments, developing DMI plans, creating an operating model, and gaining support from leadership. Explore the guide to learn more.
Identifying and Implementing Data Modernization Projects
This guide focuses on identifying and implementing data modernization projects within a state, tribal, local, or territorial public health agency. This guide covers strategies for prioritizing these activities, tips for project management and performance monitoring, tips for procurement, and technical assistance and onboarding mechanisms available to agencies. Read the guide for more.
Building, Equipping, and Sustaining a Data Modernization Workforce
In order to promote successful data modernization efforts, public health agencies must invest in workforce development. This guide provides strategies for building, equipping, and sustaining a data modernization workforce. Check out the full guide for tactics, tips, and more details.
Strengthening Data Modernization Through Collaboration and Partnerships
A critical piece of creating sustainable data modernization initiatives is facilitating collaboration and developing partnerships. This guide outlines key areas of data modernization work that may benefit from partnerships, tips for identifying potential partners, and strategies to initiate and maintain partnerships. Check out of the full guide for more.
Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability for Data Modernization Efforts
This guide focuses on modernizing and sustaining data collection in public health agencies, providing strategies for taking sustainability into account during planning efforts and tips for using funds efficiently. Read the guide for more.
Related Content
How to Modernize Data Infrastructure: A Toolkit for Public Health Leaders
Learn step by step how to prioritize and implement essential data modernization strategies. In the toolkit you’ll find actionable guidance and tailored resources for building data systems that support informed decision-making, enhance interoperability, and ensure efficient data sharing across public health sectors.