Where does the data for the Strategic Planning tool come from?

The data is based on the Sport England segmentation. This segmentation was formed by combining the results of 3 large surveys – Active People, Taking Part and Mosaic. Sport England then worked with Experian to perform cluster analysis on this data.

How accurate are the maps?

The strategic planning tool is based on extremely rich and robust data. That said – it still uses probability to extrapolate out, especially when you look at small areas. For instance – we’ve given the estimated number of Bens living within each small area on the map, but if the estimated number is 50 Bens, then there might be 30 or 70 – it just means that 50 is the most likely number based on all the evidence.

Can I use these maps to make strategic decisions?

Absolutely. Some organisations are even requiring that the planning tool is used to demonstrate a need before they will provide funding.