Integrated and Differential Monitoring Matrix: The Best of Both Worlds

Presented below is a proposed matrix depicting the relationship of integrated monitoring (IM) and differential monitoring (DM). Both integrated monitoring and differential monitoring have been discussed separately in previous posts. This 2 x 2 matrix provides a visualization of how the two approaches potentially intersect and can be used in tandem. Just as a reminder, differential monitoring involves doing an abbreviated inspection instead of a full licensing inspection utilizing either a risk assessment or a key indicator predictor methodology. Integrated monitoring is the infusion of quality elements into a given set of rules or regulations, most likely through the use of Caring for Our Children.

The 2 x 2 matrix provides four possibilities: A = Regulatory Compliance rules which results in a full inspection; B = Program Quality standards which results in a full inspection; C = Regulatory Compliance rules which results in an abbreviated inspection; and D = Program Quality standards which results in an abbreviated inspection. The essence of any model should be its relevance and hopefully its elegance. The below 2 x 2 matrix is relevant because the two monitoring approaches are the most salient ways of conducting inspections for human services regulatory administration. But hopefully it is also elegant in its simplicity and direct modeling, that we will need to see if it resonates with licensing administrators & researchers as well as regulatory scientists.

This matrix should help licensing administrators think through the appropriate use of these various approaches and what it means when combining them. Differential monitoring is an encouraged approach via CCDBG/CCDF, integrated monitoring is too new to make a determination regarding its use. I think it is the next evolution of program monitoring related to regulatory science and administration by providing a balance and continuum along the quality domain with regulatory compliance/licensing as the foundation of this continuum. TRLECE: The Role of Licensing in Early Care and Education has developed a wonderful research brief on program monitoring which highlights how states are using differential monitoring that I highly recommend (The Report).

		Integrated Monitoring (IM)
	Program Quality	Regulatory Compliance	Program Quality
Differential Monitoring (DM)	Full Inspection	A	B
	Abbreviated Inspection	C	D

Also, you may want to consult Licensing Measurement and Monitoring Systems: Regulatory Science Applied to Human Services Regulatory Administration which has a chapter about integrated monitoring (Licensing Measurement and Monitoring Systems ebook).