The DET enables DCMS and other users to build a more coherant evidence base on which to make policy for the Cultural Sector (including sport and tourism).
The purpose of the DET
The DET is an online interactive web based toolkit for accessing and using information about the Cultural Sector. It does not impose a 'one size fits all' model for the development and use of statistics, rather, the aim is to:
- establish a 'blueprint' for the analysis of Cultural Sector by outlining a standard conceptual and technical definition
- provide a reference point on how to use key data sources for a range of purposes
- outline some best practice measures for researching the Cultural Sector
Endorsement
The toolkit has grown out of a comprehensive consultation process engaging representatives from a range of bodies such as Regional Cultural Consortia, non-departmental public bodies, the Office for National Statistics and Regional Development Agencies. It has found strong backing amongst these groups.
'Culture has a place at the heart of personal, social and economic progress. Talented people and vibrant organisations in the sports, arts and heritage sectors prove this everyday in many situations and communities through the delivering of innovative projects and initiatives. DET provides the basic framework against which this innovation can be tracked, monitored, celebrated and built upon in data terms. It is a welcome step forward' (Gary Topp, Chief Executive, Yorkshire Culture).
'…it is the beginning of a coherent strategy to address the lack of data with which to understand the arts and cultural sector. The document itself is the first step in a long process. It is a project that is long overdue' (Susan Galloway, Centre for Cultural Policy Research, University of Glasgow).
Continued development
The toolkit represents a first step in developing better data and statistics for the cultural sectors and will form a solid foundation on which to build. There are still substantial challenges to be faced, many of which cannot be resolved in the short term. Current and future developments can be viewed at
ongoing developments.
We are committed to developing this product and welcome your comments which can be fed into this process via
detresponse@culture.gov.uk
