The Department of Management and Budget created a Countywide Data Analytics (CDA) unit to lead the development and management of services to increase the use and value of data assets in Fairfax County.   

To improve the effectiveness of data resources and the efficiency for data-informed decision-making, CDA is leading efforts to continuously streamline access, improve quality, and increase the comprehension of data. The primary role of CDA is to provide services to:

• increase access to data,
• produce actionable information for county use, and
• foster continuous improvements in the analysis, disaggregation, and dissemination of data to enhance understanding, inform decisions and improve county services for better community outcomes.

Essential elements for a modern data analytics program include data governance, resources for routine data management and analysis, and a supportive technological environment.

CDA guides the development of these elements through defining and implementing policies, practices and data products, linked under one framework for countywide coordination and consistency.

The framework is dependent on collective guidance and integrated planning at multiple levels. Integrated planning is guided by a two-tiered governance structure including the Data Analytics Governance Council and Data Analytics Advisory Group. 

The Data Analytics Governance Council serves as an executive steering committee to provide overarching direction and facilitate cross-county collaboration. The Data Analytics Advisory Group provides knowledge and expertise to inform recommendations and materials presented to the Data Analytics Governance Council.