Data stories from the COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a series of unexpected changes and shifts to many organizations and institutions. The cultural sector has endured the manifold of trials and tribulations brought on by the pandemic. Although the past two years have been difficult, stories of success have blossomed amongst the hardship and the resiliency of many agencies has been proven as they have transitioned to new and better ways of operating.
Data have been an important part of this story. Many organizations have applied existing data in innovative ways. Still others have sourced or created data platforms to improve services and navigate new and exciting courses for the future.
As a part of realizing the Ottawa Culture Research Group’s (OCRG) mandate to “…undertake initiatives that advance the exchange of information and expertise within the cultural sector,” the OCRG will be promoting an exchange whereby organizations and businesses in the cultural sector will have an opportunity to share and discuss how they have utilized data throughout the pandemic. This exchange will be in the form of presentation sessions whereby presenters would detail how data helped their organizations or the sector at large maneuver through the pandemic and how they feel data will improve their work and services going forward.
The OCRG would be interested in hearing from those working in or supporting the cultural sector that have used data in interesting ways during the pandemic and would be interested in sharing their story. Presentations can be up to 20 minutes long, with questions and discussion to follow. Topics can include:
• How data have helped your organization during the pandemic, including changes that have been made that improved your operations;
• How you have used data to show the value of culture in Ottawa (and beyond); and how this has helped you advocate for the sector;
• How data have helped your organization respond to lockdowns and restrictions;
• Lessons learned – what would you have done differently or what additional data do you wish you had;
• How data are helping plan for the recovery of the cultural sector; and
• Any other insights that data have provided to you and your organization during this time.
Presentations will commence in April 2022 and will be conducted virtually. If you are interested in making a presentation, or if you have any questions, please contact:
Eva Walrond, OCRG Co-Chair
Ben Dick, OCRG Project Manager