Information and data you collect will either be:

• Quantitative – Quantitative data uses numbers to count or measure. For example, we can count the responses to multiple choice or rating scale questions in a questionnaire.
• Qualitative – Qualitative data is descriptive data that is not numerical; for example, feedback collected through open-ended responses to surveys, interviews, or focus groups.

Data you have collected using quantitative methods can be analysed statistically for patterns, for example percentages, averages or the frequency of responses. Most quantitative data can be easily analysed using common spreadsheet software. For example, you can organise data in Excel in columns according to the questions asked and the respondent. Excel can then calculate averages and percentages and can be used to produce graphs and tables.

National Council for Voluntary Organisation’s (NCVO) website gives more detail on how to analyse quantitative data. HealthWatch UK also has a good resource

Data you have collected using Qualitative methods can be analysed using a coding framework  or looking for themes.

National Council for Voluntary Organisation’s (NCVO) website gives more detail on how to analyse qualitative data. Healthwatch UK also has a good resource

It is possible to use free tools to help with analysis. Taguette is possible the most well-known.

Questions to ask when looking at your data

 When looking at both types of data it is important to ask yourself some key questions:

• Are we seeing the outcomes we expected to see?
• How has our service(s) helped? Can changes be attributed to our work?
• Where do we get our best results? Which are our most effective activities?
• Are the results consistent? Do we achieve better outcomes for some groups of users?
• What is the long-term difference our service(s) had made?
• What other factors have contributed to this change?