Connect for Success in action

How data can help us do our jobs

New ways of gathering and interpreting facts and numbers in Argyll and Bute to improve how we work.

What is data and how can it help us in the work that we do?

Anything can be data. Every time you buy something or go somewhere information (data) is created and when we look at lots of information we can start to see patterns. This is useful in learning about everything from how people like to travel, where they shop or what can help kids learn at school.  

We’ve been looking at how we can use data to help make decisions that  support communities in Argyll and Bute. To do this our Data Strategy and Action plan (2024-2028) is focused on developing not only how we gather data and use technology, but also empowering us with the skills and opportunities we need to make the most of data.

We’ve also established the Data Advisory Group, a dedicated council-wide initiative that brings together colleagues from all services to share updates and insights on various data projects. And with external speakers, the group offers an inspiring look at how other organisations are working with data to improve their services. Everyone is welcome to join and learn about the work that’s going on or share their ideas.

Could your project benefit from gathering more data or insights? If you think it could then a good first step is to get in touch with David Murdoch, Data Programme Manager, who can help identify the challenge, any existing data that can help and what other data might be available both within the council and from trusted external sources, plus share an outline on how you can work together to deliver what’s needed.

Would you like to learn more about how to manage data?

New LEON course – managing data – My Council Works 

Read our Data Strategy and Action Plan here: Microsoft Word – AbcDataStrategyActionPlan2024FINAL (argyll-bute.gov.uk)

This is Connect for Success in action. Data and Evidence Driven. One Council One Place. Learning Council. Agile. Maximise Useful Technology.