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

Magnifying glass icon

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

Program
Evaluation

line chart icon

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

Performance
Measurement

person standing in front of a board icon

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

Policy
Analysis

bar chart icon

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.

CLEAR logo

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

CLEAR logo

Plans and Assessment

The Department of Labor publishes various reports to describe future plans and current capacity to conduct evidence-building activities.

Learn More about plans and assessment