Towards a qualitative data observatory: generation, connection, use

Abstract

This article examines the relationship of qualitative data to place-based decision-making and the role of data observatories in these emerging debates and practices. Qualitative data enables the understanding and evaluation of the lived and felt experience of place. This article identifies where qualitative data approaches intersect with place-based policy and existing data observatory initiatives. While data observatory initiatives and projects address how data is stored and shared, the specificities and nuances of doing this work for qualitative data remain unexamined. This article analyses findings from a project that scoped the potential of a qualitative data observatory. It draws together empirical data from a review of different types of data observatories, a series of interviews and focus groups with qualitative data users, and two workshops with creative practitioners and stakeholders. This mixed-methods approach seeks to outline the possibilities of combining qualitative data and data observatory methods. The findings suggest three themes that guide a framework for designing, building and sustaining a qualitative data observatory: generation, connection, use.

More information

Identifiers

ORCID for Daniel Ashton: orcid.org/0000-0002-3120-1783

ORCID for Joseph Owen: orcid.org/0000-0002-2483-6502

Catalogue record

Export record

Altmetrics