Why Data Literacy is Crucial for High-Level Federal Communicators

Data is everywhere. From social media metrics to economic indicators, vast amounts of data are generated every second that shape decisions and policies at all levels of government. For high-level federal communicators, the ability to understand and use data to communicate effectively is not just beneficial—it’s essential.  

Federal communicators play a vital role in delivering accurate and meaningful information to the public, stakeholders and decision-makers. Data literacy—the ability to interpret and communicate well using data—is a skill that will enhance that role. 

At the Partnership for Public Service, I oversee a monthly roundtable for high-level federal communicators and I am always searching for content that will add value to my participants’ professional lives. I took part in the Partnership’s data literacy training, “Insightful Governance: Data Literacy for Government Leaders,” and I found it to be informative and useful.  

Informed by my own experience and solidified by the training, here are five key observations on using data for improved communications: 

Inform Decision-Making 

Federal communicators often work at the intersection of policy, politics and public opinion. Data-literate communicators can better understand trends, find patterns and come up with insights to create strategic messages. Whether crafting messaging around a new policy initiative or responding to a crisis, data literacy enables communicators to create powerful, evidence-based messaging that will capture attention and educate audiences. These are messages the public is more likely to share.  

Enhance Accountability and Transparency 

Transparency is a cornerstone of democracy and plays a crucial role in fostering accountability within government agencies. Transparency builds trust and credibility both within agencies and with the public. When insights are based on data, high-level federal communicators can be more transparent in their messaging.  

Drive Innovation and Efficiency 

Data-driven innovation is transforming the way our government operates. Federal communicators are gaining support for these advances by using data to educate the public. An informed public can generate support for policies and initiatives that can transform communities across our nation. 

Communicate Complexity 

Government policies and initiatives often involve complex issues that can be challenging to explain. Data literacy equips federal communicators to distill complex information into clear, compelling narratives. Whether it’s explaining the intricacies of health care reform or the implications of environmental regulations, data-literate communicators turn complicated topics into understandable narratives that resonate with diverse audiences and can foster understanding and engagement with the public and lead to meaningful dialogue.  

Foster Collaboration 

Effective communication within and across government agencies is essential for collaboration. Data literacy provides stakeholders with a common language for interpreting information and engaging with one another. Data-literate federal communicators can bridge gaps between technical experts, policymakers and the public. This can help with collaboration and consensus-building and enable federal agencies to be more effective at tackling pressing issues and achieving shared goals. 

By investing in data literacy training and embracing a data-driven mindset, federal communicators can improve their approach to navigating the complexities of government and ensure their communication efforts are informed, transparent and effective. 

The Partnership for Public Service will be offering three “Insightful Governance: Data Literacy for Government Leaders” training sessions in 2024, scheduled for July, September and October. These are free for government leaders. For more details and to sign up, please contact nshutava@ourpublicservice.org or ashawsmith@ourpublicservice.org.

Jessica DeLoach is responsible for overseeing a portfolio of projects aimed at increasing the public's trust in our federal government and strengthening the capacity of federal public affairs officers.