Introducing our special guests:

• Daz Chauhan, Director at Knowledge Industries
• Elishama Tizora, Head of Data and Business Intelligence at Great Places
• Andreea Fard, Head of Digital, Data and Technology at Community Gateway

The social housing sector is facing increasing pressure to enhance service delivery, optimise resources, and improve tenant outcomes. In response, data-driven decision making emerged as a transformative approach, enabling housing providers to harness the power of data analytics to inform strategy and operations.

The Housing Hive explored the critical role of data in shaping the future of social housing, with a focus on three essential pillars:

1. Systems: Examining the technological infrastructure required to collect, analyse, and act on data insights. We will delve into best practices for implementing data systems that support efficient service delivery and performance monitoring, including the analysis of Tenant Satisfaction Measures, complaints, and repairs data. Additionally, we will explore how data can be leveraged to identify opportunities and build a business case for increased use of technology and digital services.
2. People: Highlighting the importance of building data literacy within teams. We will discuss strategies for empowering staff with the skills and confidence to interpret data, drive innovation, and enhance decision-making processes.
3. Culture: Addressing the need for a cultural shift towards data-informed practices. We will explore how to foster a mindset of continuous improvement and accountability, ensuring data becomes a cornerstone of organisational values.

Attendees gained practical insights into using data to improve outcomes, boost efficiency, and deliver more responsive housing services.

This session was aimed at leaders, data practitioners, and policymakers committed to driving change through data-led strategies.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to April's Housing Hive
00:42 Current Challenges in the Housing Sector
02:04 The Importance of Data Quality
04:15 Panelist Introductions
05:57 Discussion on Data Foundations
10:59 Assessing Data Maturity
15:43 The Role of External Data
18:32 Standardising Data Across the Sector
21:45 The Importance of Data Governance
24:47 Building Data Confidence in Teams
30:27 Prioritising Business Projects and Data Governance
31:52 Assessing Team Capability and Data Literacy
33:22 Challenges with KPI-Driven Cultures
37:25 Inspiration from Other Sectors
41:54 Making Data Stick: Culture and Governance
47:11 Demonstrating ROI and Data Strategy
53:34 Q&A: Social Value and Development Pathways
56:56 Final Takeaways and Next Steps