Three Tips for COVID-19 Recovery: Get Your Data House in Order (Contributed)

Source: Gov Tech Published: April 14, 2020

The U.S. is in the middle of the most severe public health crisis of the past century. But, as we know from other recent disasters, the immediate response is half the battle. If the lessons of disaster recoveries hold — such as post-Katrina New Orleans (where this author was data analytics director from 2010-2017) — the long-tailed recovery from COVID-19 will be as consequential in shaping communities as the immediate crisis itself. To prepare, state, local, and community leaders must prioritize their data capacity now — infrastructure, practices, and governance — to ensure recovery is conducted as swiftly, efficiently, and equitably as possible. 

Consider two groups of public servants. Group A serves on the front lines of the crisis, caring for critical patients, delivering meals, and housing vulnerable populations. Group B is everyone else, many of whom are working from home supporting their colleagues from afar. They include economic development professionals, city planners, data specialists, and the others who work to improve our communities in “normal” times.  

Group A works around the clock doing their best to save lives. When the crisis’ peak passes and triggers the arduous task of recovery, Group B takes over. Just as hospitals prepare by stocking supplies, now is the time for Group B to shore up their data capacity so they can ensure recovery is intelligently executed and delivered to those most in need. 

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