The IDS approach introduced in this paper is derived from the careful study of the best practices of fully-functioning integrated data systems that are part of the Actionable Intelligence for Social Policy Network. The purpose of this paper is threefold: First, it will present the conceptual framework for the IDS approach, describing how the IDS approach incorporates heuristic concepts from the major recent reform movements in public administration: performance management, continuous quality improvement, and evidence-based policymaking. Second, it will detail how these core features of the IDS approach are used to build a sustainable infrastructure to support a fully-functioning IDS for state and local government. Finally, the paper will illustrate how the IDS approach can be used as an effective and efficient vehicle to data-driven solutions through a close look at a single inquiry cycle and an overview of the larger systematic and iterative social problem-solving process within government.