Introduction

Abstract

AbstractThe authors introduce the idea of data capability and why this is a crucial time for non-profit organisations to become skilled and resourced in data analytics. First, we explore the non-profit sector and how its role as a provider of social services in many high-income countries means it increasingly works with data. We suggest how non-profits could re-use data they already generate, along with open public data, to address their data challenges and gaps, including to evidence their social impact. Second, we explain why non-profits should aim for data capability that differs in relation to context, comparing it with data literacy and data maturity as outcomes. We propose benefits from collaborating with data and data analytics because it enables access to wider resources and more holistic solutions. We end by summarising the current relationship between citizens who are often in non-profit data as clients and customers and the lack of routine ways for non-profits to engage citizens in data work. We highlight this space of working with citizens as one where experiments and new ideas are forming. We suggest non-profits need to invest in skilling-up and resourcing within their organisations, so they are competent to work with citizens and data.