The LGA’s better use of data programme offers a range of free-to-access support to help local authorities improve their data maturity.
As part of our better use of data programme, we offer a range of free-to-access resources to help local authorities improve their data maturity, including:
- the local government data maturity assessment tool
- webinars
- a data strategy and use knowledge hub group
- a data masterclass for chief executives and council leaders
- a collection of data resources
- a range of case studies.
For further information about any of the resources mentioned below, please contact [email protected].
Local government data maturity assessment tool
Our refreshed data maturity model and self-assessment tool was launched in August 2023, taking account of updates in the data landscape and feedback from councils.
Councils can use this light-touch tool to assess their data maturity, plan next steps and find resources to support their data maturity journey.
To help councils get started we have produced two short video guides that look at the benefits of undertaking an assessment of your organisational data maturity using the Data Maturity Self-Assessment Tool.
- An introduction to the Local Government Association's Data Maturity self-assessment tool
- A practical guide to the Local Government Association's Data Maturity tool
Additionally, councils that complete the tool will be invited to participate in a facilitated data maturity session, bringing small peer groups of officers together in confidence to share learning and good practice in the use of data.
Data webinars
We run a regular series of webinars focusing on various aspects of data strategy and use in local government.
Details of our upcoming data and research webinars may be found on our website.
Recordings of previous sessions can be found on the data webinar recordings page.
Data strategy and use Knowledge Hub group
The Knowledge Hub is a free online platform used extensively by the LGA to allow groups of officers from across local government to come together in online groups. The Data Strategy and Use discussion area, hosted by the the Local Area Research and Intelligence Association (LARIA) Knowledge Hub group, is a space for officers with an interest in the strategic and/or practical aspects of the use of data in local authorities to ask questions and share advice and good practice.
How to join the group
You don’t need to be a member of LARIA to join the Knowledge Hub group.
- If you are not already a Knowledge Hub member, then sign up using your local authority e-mail address.
- Go to https://khub.net/group/lariagroup. If you are not already a member of the LARIA group, you will need to request access.
- Once you are a member, look for the ‘Data strategy and use’ category in the ‘Discussion’ area. Within this there are two subcategories – one for all councils and one specifically for district and smaller councils. Use the three dots next to each subcategory to subscribe to one or both groups – this will ensure you are notified when new discussions take place.
Demystifying data - data masterclasses for chief executives and council leaders
We run data masterclasses designed specifically for chief executives and council leaders, to show how better use of data can transform public services, help save money and improve outcomes.
Attendees will hear real case studies, gain actionable insights and network in a safe, confidential space. They will find out 'what good looks like' and, critically, how to get there. To be alerted when booking opens for the next set of masterclasses please email [email protected].