Local data provides policymakers, community organizers, and scholars with the tools needed to identify inequities and target resources for action. Disaggregated data allows these stakeholders to make decisions at a highly targeted level, with the ability to create precise solutions for specific audiences. Although many data platforms have emerged in recent years, the abundance of data platforms makes it increasingly difficult for users to discern which platform best meets their needs. And, data providers benefit from guidance on how to best showcase key features such as credibility, freshness of data, and the ability to stratify and graphically depict results. In short, despite the wealth of data platforms, few guidelines exist on how to effectively communicate existing data, how to ensure that data is shared with those who can drive change, and how best to share and visualize data for the greatest impact.
This report identifies a set of best practices and features that enable data platforms to inform policy and practice and catalyze action towards health equity. By closely studying five data platforms — the John Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, University of Chicago COVID Atlas, City Health Dashboard, Neighborhood Data for Social Change and Opportunity Atlas — this report explores the specific needs each platform was designed to meet, and assesses their success reaching their intended audiences.