The ultimate goal of this toolkit is to help state agencies strengthen their data and research infrastructure. It provides an assessment tool to help agencies determine their enhancement needs as well as guidelines on how to approach implementation of several different infrastructure-enhancing strategies. The toolkit is not intended to function as a technical design manual, but rather seeks to help agencies identify necessary components for successful implementation of the strategy or strategies they choose to pursue. The guidance provided within the toolkit is based on best practice and lessons learned from those that have worked on similar efforts, both nationally and in Connecticut. (author abstract)