In planning for improvement, what type of data should be identified to measure progress toward each goal?

• A. Qualitative and quantitative data.
• B. Only standardized test scores.
• C. Only qualitative feedback.
• D. No data collection is required.

Answer: (A)

In planning for improvement, you need data that show both how much progress is being made and why that progress is occurring. Quantitative data give you numbers you can measure and track over time—counts, rates, scores, timelines—so you can see trends and compare against goals. Qualitative data provide descriptive insights—feedback, experiences, observations—that help you understand the context, causes, and nuanced factors behind those numbers. Together, they give a fuller picture: you can quantify progress while also interpreting the reasons behind it and identifying what to adjust next. For example, tracking defect rates quantifies quality, while interviews with frontline staff reveal root causes and possible fixes. Relying only on standardized test scores would miss other important indicators, and relying only on qualitative feedback would lack objective measurement over time. Therefore, identifying both qualitative and quantitative data to measure progress toward each goal is the best approach.