A new version of the Digital Inclusion map will overlay existing resources information on to colour-coded areas of deprivation, making the map a unique visual analytical tool for planners and practitioners.
New data layers
The original prototype (digitalinclusion.nz) maps New Zealand resources by location, type and programme. The new map adds socio-economic and digital skills/availability data layers, derived from the NZ Census, the Broadband Map, PIAAC, academic and other data sets. We are working with strategic partner InternetNZ on the enhancements, which will be rolled out over time.
A unique resource
The map will, for the first time in New Zealand, show an interactive ‘HEAT map’ of areas of likely social and digital deprivation, overlaid with digital inclusion resource data. The user will be able to tailor the displayed map: to zoom in on selected regions, focus on selected aspects of inclusion/exclusion and overlay with selected types of resources.
We expect this tool will significantly
- help policy analysts and planners in central & local government identify areas of need, and initiatives worth expanding
- help organisations working for digital social and economic inclusion find local partners and support networks
- help advice agencies and the public find local resources, such as workplace-ready digital skills training and life long learning
and that it will be a useful resource for academics and action-researchers and others with an interest in digital social and economic inclusion.
Over 550 projects and locations mapped – more to come
The map already has a significant number of digital inclusion resources mapped. These are being updated and added to, in parallel with the functionality developments.
Who owns the data?
The information we publish is already public; however we consider that resource owners own their listings, and encourage them to send in changes or corrections; we remove unwanted listings on request. In a future version we plan functionality to let them edit their listings directly.
Who is behind the map?
InternetNZ is leading the technical development and ‘big data’, whilst 20/20 is looking after the community resource and project information. The project is part funded as a Catalyst project by the government led Data Futures Partnership (http://www.datafutures.co.nz/our-work-2/catalyst-projects/ )
How can I help?
Please tell us about any digital inclusion related projects, resources and groups not on the map.
Spread the word – digitalinclusion.nz already has a lot of useful information for people working with those at risk of digital exclusion.