Overview
Across the region we use data to inform strategic planning. Data is used to identify areas for development and better practice. This page gives colleagues quick access to key data links.
Data and Evidence Informed practice
In the South West we have been using the term “better practice” when describing what we have done that has worked well. The below explains why…
Determining best practices to address a particular policy problem is a commonly used but little understood tool of analysis. The concept best is vague and subjective and should therefore be examined with caution.
While some research and evidence must go into determining a practice the “best” it is more helpful to simply determine if a practice has worked well and why. Instead of it being “the best”, a practice might simply be a smart practice, or promising practice. This terminology allows for a mix and match approach for making recommendations that might encompass pieces of many practices.
What may work within the world of SEND and AP is the concept of “better practice”. This recognises that we are all in different places on our development journey and that all local authorities are different. It enables us to focus on what has worked well and why.
This term does not imply a comparison between authorities rather, better refers to better than before. The aim is that we will develop our own language and culture around better or best practice.
We are suggesting that we use the term “better practice” across the South West rather than the more problematic term “best practice”. Basing our strategies on data and research will enable us to be confident that what we are doing will make a difference.