Measure and make progress towards improving social wellbeing

Confidence

Quality of Evidence

The evidence supporting the importance of measuring and making progress toward improving social wellbeing is of moderate quality. Researchers consistently highlight the critical role of data and measurement in understanding social dynamics, identifying at-risk populations, and guiding interventions to improve social wellbeing. However, few empirical studies have compared outcomes between communities that do and do not have robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Nevertheless, such approaches have likely benefits regardless of whether they translate to specific outcomes at the population level. For example, research on decision-making highlights the utility of such information in justifying decisions. As well, at the individual-level, monitoring can help individuals and care providers make better lifestyle choices.

Balance of Benefits and Harms

The balance of benefits versus harms in measuring and improving social wellbeing is strongly in favour of benefits. Regularly assessing social wellbeing allows communities to identify gaps, monitor trends, and adjust strategies to better meet the needs of their populations. This leads to more informed decision-making, improved social programs, and greater accountability. The potential harms, such as the misuse of data, privacy concerns, or the misallocation of resources, are generally minimal and can be mitigated through ethical research practices, transparent data governance, and community engagement. The guideline’s emphasis on evidence-based strategies and reducing disparities further enhances the benefits while minimizing risks.

Alignment with Values and Preferences

This guideline aligns well with the values and preferences of communities that prioritize transparency, accountability, and equity in public health and social policy. Indeed, evidence-based decision making is highly valued. The recommendation to measure and improve social wellbeing resonates with stakeholders who value data-driven approaches to community development and social planning. While some communities may face challenges in allocating resources for research and measurement, the guideline’s focus on using data to improve outcomes and reduce disparities makes it highly acceptable across diverse contexts.

Feasibility

The feasibility of measuring and making progress towards improving social wellbeing is moderate. While developing measurement frameworks, conducting research, and monitoring progress require resources, expertise, and sustained commitment, many communities already have access to data collection tools and partnerships with academic or public health institutions that can support these efforts. Additionally, the guideline’s emphasis on evidence-based strategies ensures that investments in measurement are purposeful and aligned with community needs, increasing the feasibility of achieving meaningful progress in social wellbeing.

Certainty of Recommendation

Based on our assessment of the above criteria, we are confident that monitoring and evaluation is critical to promoting social wellbeing. Our primary reservations relate to whether policy and decision-makers are able to make meaningful use of the data collected. Nevertheless, we believe the likelihood that additional information or evidence would cause us to reverse this recommendation is low.

Overall Assessment

The overall rating for this guideline is Strong Recommendation, Moderate Quality of Evidence.