The Equity Indicator Library serves as a reference tool to advance knowledge and understanding of inequity in communities.

Define clear objectives to describe what the organization is seeking to learn about equity. Objectives should cover the project scope, such as areas, problems, communities, or policies that are being targeted for further research. Objectives should also identify the underserved or target populations the research seeks to learn more about. Multiple communities may be identified, and the term “underserved” may apply based on race, ethnicity, language, income, gender identity, religion, immigration status, or other factors.

Hold brainstorming sessions with experts to select an initial list of indicators based on objectives and then verify the list with stakeholders. The evaluation scale should be selected for each indicator before data analysis is performed.

Identify and gather data on indicators. Review data sources and collect further data on indicators.

Perform a statistical analysis on the data collected for the selected indicators to identify areas of further interest. Causal loop diagrams may also be used to model and understand interactions between indicators and objectives. Document insights, observations, and themes.

Make decisions and implement changes based on the statistical analysis and causal loop diagrams. Decisions could include collecting more data, implementing a new policy, or selecting indicators to monitor over time to reach a goal.

Continue to collect data. Repeat the process starting at Step 3 to monitor the indicators over time and adjust as needed.