Yesterday we launched the first iteration of the new data catalogue. Purpose: to help you find data more easily.

The new catalogue, now under the menu "Find Data", is in an alpha stage. That is to say, we're still working on some key features (single-click downloads, search bar that autocompletes, and of course a catalogue that works en français). Nonetheless, in its current stage, we think it already feels much more pleasant to use than the old catalogue.

Here's a summary of the enhancements we've already made.

We're in the process of renovating the data catalogue. Over the course of the week, the appearance of certain aspects of the site may change. We'll provide an update when everything's ready to roll.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask us.

Community Development Halton published their 93rd issue of the Community Lens. This issue focuses on seniors in special care facilities within Halton Region.

[Courtesy of Environics Analytics]

There appears to be an issue with the NMCD_Max variable in the 2013Q1 TransUnion Credit Report Characteristics dataset. Other variables do not appear to be affected. We are investigating the problem and will provide an update when the matter is resolved. Until then, please avoid using this dataset.

Custom geographies are still progressing at Statistics Canada. Nine out of 17 communities are finished, and the remainder are in sight. The delayed delivery appears to be due to a spike in custom orders at Statistics Canada over the past several months. We have adjusted our ETA from the original November 2013 to April 2014.

The April webinar on small area income data has been postponed to the summer. Stay tuned for updates.

We're postponing in order to focus on (1) developing an improved (beta) catalogue that we intend to launch on April 1, and (2) pricing and ordering NHS data. On that front, we expect to receive the first set of target group profiles early in April.

At the 2013 Annual Meeting, we took stock of how users were using CDP data, and established five objectives for data usage for the 2013-2014 program year. With only three weeks remaining in 2013-2014, we've begun to look back and assess how well we did.*

The Social Planning Network of Ontario (SPNO) issued a statement on the National Household Survey in January. The statement is copied below.

Click here to check out the statement on the SPNO website

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The voluntary National Household Survey (NHS) has produced lower quality data than the mandatory long-form Census it has replaced. The Social Planning Network of Ontario only uses NHS data when higher quality data is not available.

The CCSD’s President and CEO, Peggy Taillon, today announced the addition of a new program to its suite, Community Analytics. This initiative complements and builds on our flagship program, the Community Data Program (CDP).