DSS sites generate a wealth of data and information but by their very nature and human resource constraints, there are usually insufficient numbers of analysts to process all the potential products.  Because such a wealth of parameters can be monitored at household level over time in DSS sites, the range of potential users of information is much larger than generally appreciated.  Yet currently the main consumers of DSS data are researchers.

In an effort to generate additional resources to sustain high quality DSS performance it is suggested that DSS sites should make investments in analytical capacity in order to diversify their information products and audiences.  There are a number of issues to be resolved before this can be achieved.  For example, the issue of ownership of data must be established. Is the source data in question resulting from core DSS activities or a result of research projects conducted within the DSS? Who has paid for the information and what is their position on the public goods value of the information produced?

Potential consumers of DSS information include the local health system as well as national and international health sector partners; those concerned with monitoring poverty reduction and progress towards Millennium Development Goals; other sectors and disciplines such as education, agriculture, and civil registration.

This Resource Kit identifies DSS measurable parameters that are needed by countries to monitor progress towards Millennium Development Goals and Targets.