Support for organisations taking first steps with data
Many organisations begin their data journey with limited structure in place. The Essential Approach helps build strong foundations by focusing on core compliance, basic tracking, and early awareness of data’s potential value.
This offer is ideal for teams that want to move from ad hoc practices toward more consistent ways of collecting, using, and thinking about data — without overcomplicating systems or language.
Example components of The Essential Approach:
- Minimum legal and compliance requirements
- Simple tools for tracking activity or performance
- Awareness-building around data use and skills
- One-off surveys, check-ins, or outputs
- Basic support for interpreting and using early data
Why it matters:
Getting the basics right saves time later. Even small shifts, such as agreeing what to track or where to store it, can help avoid duplication, support clearer decisions, and build confidence across teams.
We’ve helped small charities develop shared reporting templates, local councils introduce light-touch dashboards, and partnerships agree what ‘good data’ means in their context. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.
When to choose this approach:
- You’re starting to collect data, but don’t yet have standard tools or processes
- Staff are unsure what to record, or why
- You need a simple, usable entry point to start building good habits
We’ll work with you to introduce tools, offer staff support, and keep things focused on what matters most.
Get in touch to find out how we can support your first steps with data
Research Well 