There are numerous publicly accessible data sources in Switzerland. However, according to Ross Purves, Professor at the Institute of Geography at the University of Zurich, their potential has not yet been sufficiently exploited. This is precisely where the Public Data Lab (PDL) wants to start: The aim is to develop new indicators together with administration, science, politics and society in order to make complex phenomena measurable and discussable.
According to Ross, indicators translate complex processes into measurable figures, for example on sleep quality or social inequality. An example from teaching: students in the canton of Zurich developed an indicator for sleep quality based on noise, light and temperature data. In the future, such projects are to be expanded in a practical way, e.g. in collaboration with the Canton of Zurich.
The PDL is starting with four lighthouse projects, one of which is dedicated to the development of an indicator for multiple deprivation. This involves working with partners from the field to determine which factors are relevant, from education to access to services and housing. It is also important to critically examine the limits of quantitative data collection.
In addition to research, the PDL places particular emphasis on social dialog: Public events, artistic approaches and policy sabbaticals are intended to promote exchange and open up new perspectives on data and indicators.
