Department of Human Services updates online accountability tool

Contact:
Jeremy Drucker
Communications
651-431-2920

PDF version of news release

One year after launching a simple way for Minnesotans to track progress toward key agency goals, the Minnesota Department of Human Services is continuing its accountability efforts. DHS Dashboard measurements are up to date with the most recent data and additional measurements have been added to the online tool.

“The public dashboard is an important accountability tool for the department and for Minnesotans,” said Commissioner Lucinda Jesson. “Tracking our progress over time on these measures allows us to better know what is working and where we need to improve.”

The dashboard allows taxpayers to know what they’re getting from the programs they pay for. Since June 2011, it has outlined and charted progress toward goals in four priority areas: people, innovation, equity and program integrity. The four areas reflect DHS’ mission to help people meet their basic needs so they can live in dignity and achieve their highest potential, and its commitment to modernize and innovate so it can better deliver high-quality services in a cost-effective manner.

Depending on each measure, goals were set annually, quarterly or by specific dates. Most have now been updated with the most current data available and several new measures have been added to the dashboard. A summary of existing and new measures can be viewed at http://dashboard.dhs.state.mn.us/summary.aspx.

Going forward, new measures will continue to be added as DHS advances its commitment to accountability, transparency and continual performance improvement. 

The DHS Dashboard was inspired by Gov. Mark Dayton’s innovation agenda to create a better government for a better Minnesota. The website is one step in the ongoing effort to help state government become more open and accountable to citizens.