Improving use of evidence has been a mantra for many in local government, but what difference is it making in helping authorities navigate and take big decisions? New research for the Alliance for Useful Evidence sheds light on the current state of play and calls for collaboration to address critical data and skill gaps, says Derrick Johnstone.

The report, Squaring the Circle, has been published today at the LARIA conference. It describes how authorities have sought deeper understanding of needs and strategic choices through better use of data and developing analytical skills and methods.