Over the past two decades, states have made meaningful progress toward building statewide longitudinal data systems (SLDSs) that can enable access to the data that people need to make informed decisions about education and workforce pathways. But what does building and sustaining a high-quality SLDS cost? To find an answer, DQC dug into four examples of robust state data systems in California, Kentucky, Maryland, and Washington state.
We found that the cost of maintaining these comprehensive and mature SLDSs averages around $3 million annually, but the complete cost depends on the state’s vision, priorities, and existing infrastructure. Based on our analysis of these systems, we identified three key lessons to guide any state leader seeking to make meaningful investments in their state’s future.
