How the Midlands Engine Observatory uses innovative data to fuel growth in the Midlands

The Midlands Engine is the largest regional economy in the UK outside London and the place that 11 million people call home.

Working as part of this partnership, the Midlands Engine Observatory serves as a hub for data intelligence and evidence, delivering regional focused research to a range of partners, including local authorities, business groups and universities.

Professor Delma Dwight, Director of the Midlands Engine Observatory, leads efforts to understand economic and business trends crucial for decision making and policy creation. Leveraging innovative platforms like The Data City, Delma and her team drive data-driven insights to fuel growth and development across the Midlands.

The team at Midlands Engine Observatory had previously used a range of other platforms for data analysis, including traditional databases like FAME and DueDil. However, after trialling the platform, The Data City emerged as a new and innovative way to support their analysis.

Initially drawn our Real-Time Industry Classification (RTIC) system, which addresses the complexities of defining sectors and identifying businesses, the team found The Data City’s innovative approach to data collection and strong engagement particularly compelling.

The Data City platform facilitates a broad spectrum of analysis, ranging from basic company checks to in-depth sector-specific searches. Integration of funding data empowers the team to pinpoint key players and high-growth companies within specific regions.

Beyond day-to-day operations, The Data City plays a pivotal role in supporting major research projects, such as the landmark report ‘Exploring the Investment Potential of Midlands Clusters’.

This report not only positioned Midlands Engine as a frontrunner in economic analysis but also helped catalyse deeper collaboration among partners, driving investment and growth initiatives across the region.

With outdated SIC codes and other ‘stand-still’ company databases not delivering the insights needed, the Midlands Engine Observatory have been able to take a new, innovative approach to insights with The Data City.

By harnessing real-time insights and fostering collaboration, the Midlands Engine is poised to drive sustained growth and prosperity across the region.

To learn more about the Midlands Engine Observatory’s impactful research and initiatives, visit their website today.