The Infrastructure Analytical Dashboard (IAD) is a business intelligence tool that provides a comprehensive overview of disclosed infrastructure data.
The tool analyses multiple infrastructure datasets drawn from projects publicized on CoST Sekondi-Takoradi’s Disclosure Portal
by 8 local government authorities (procuring entities) currently working with the organization. The IAD generates statistical and interactive infographic use cases that provide insights
on value-for-money considerations, tender management, and contract administration; and quantitatively categorizes projects according to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Data Visualization as an
Important Tool for Evidence-Based Decision Making
Access to easily understandable infrastructure data can greatly benefit individuals, organizations, and governments in making informed decisions
and optimizing resource allocation. However, the bulk and complexity of datasets can be overwhelming, especially for users who are not familiar with data
analysis or lack technical expertise to analyse complex data. This may lead to misinterpretation; leading to flawed conclusions, or biased decision-making.
Therefore, presenting complex datasets through visualizations enable multiple stakeholders (government, the private sector, civil society, media,
and citizens) to interact and efficiently visualize complex information to identify and understand potentially significant trends associated with the delivery of
publicly-funded infrastructure projects. Visual representations provide unique insight by aiding decision-makers and other stakeholders to grasp hitherto complex
datasets or information items to inform infrastructure reform.
With the added ability to filter data according to multiple variables and interactive visualizations, the IAD enables users to filter data,
drill down into details, and explore different aspects of the presented information.
How was the IAD developed?
With a broad objective of triggering accountability mechanisms and driving reform by using compelling infographics to ensure data usage,
the development of the IAD went through 3 phases.
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Collaboration and Co-Creation: Through 8 district-level multi-stakeholder end-user engagements in the 8 participating
districts, feedback and insight were gathered from end-users through focus groups to gather valuable insight. The 8 participating districts include:
Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Tarkwa- Nsuaem Municipal Assembly, Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly, Wassa East District Assembly, Ahanta
West Municipal Assembly, Shama District Assembly, Mpohor District Assembly, Nzema East Municipal Assembly. These engagements offered the opportunity to
capture end-user points of view to develop use cases based on stakeholder interest and metrics they find valuable.
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Alignment with Data Standard: Alignment with the CoST Infrastructure Data Standard (IDS)
data was a crucial phase in the IAD development process to ensure there was coherence between data points and the areas of interest of end-users. By aligning data points with the areas of interest of end-users,
it enabled a coherent and user-centric dashboard that provides relevant and actionable insights to be developed. To further ensure use cases around tender and contract management are aligned to the
Open Contracting for
Infrastructure Data Standards Toolkit, use cases were mapped per OC4IDS red flag indicators.
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Validation and Feedback: By actively seeking validation and feedback from end-users and stakeholders as part of the development process, this ensures that the IAD is user-centric, meets the
needs of end-users, and drives effective decision-making.
Benefits of IAD in Social
Accountability and Infrastructure Reform
Here's how different stakeholders can utilize an analytical
dashboard for social accountability and reform:
Procuring Entities (Metropolitan, Municipal and
District Assemblies):
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Project Tracking: Procuring Entities can
use the dashboard to track the progress of infrastructure projects,
including timelines, budgets, and milestones. This allows them to ensure
that projects are being executed as planned and identify any potential
delays or cost overruns.
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Financial Transparency: The dashboard can
provide detailed information on project expenditures, including budget
allocation, expenses, and contracts. This transparency helps prevent
corruption and mismanagement by allowing stakeholders to monitor the
flow of
funds and detect any irregularities.
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Citizen Engagement: The dashboard can serve
as a platform for engaging with citizens and soliciting their feedback.
By providing access to project information, updates, and performance
data, government agencies can foster transparency, build trust, and
encourage
citizen participation in decision-making processes.
Private Sector (Construction Companies, Contractors
and Consultants):
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Performance Evaluation: Private sector
players can utilize the dashboard to assess their own performance in
delivering
infrastructure projects. They can track key metrics such as project
completion rates, adherence to quality standards, and safety records.
This transparency
encourages companies, contractors and consultants to maintain high
standards and be accountable for their work.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Media and
Infrastructure Monitors:
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Data Analysis and Oversight: CSOs and
infrastructure monitors can leverage the dashboard to access and analyse
data related
to infrastructure projects. They can scrutinize key indicators, such as
cost and time overrun, or environmental impact, to assess the
effectiveness and
efficiency of the projects. This analysis can drive public discourse,
demand accountability, and advocate for necessary reforms.
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Citizen Engagement: CSOs and Media
practitioners can use the dashboard as a platform to engage citizens in
monitoring
infrastructure delivery. By sharing visualizations and data with the
public, they empower citizens to actively participate, provide feedback,
and hold
duty-bearers accountable. This engagement fosters a sense of ownership
and ensures that infrastructure projects align with community needs.
Local Communities and Project Beneficiaries:
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Impact Assessment: The dashboard can
provide information on the anticipated social, economic, and
environmental impacts of
infrastructure projects. Local communities and affected residents can
access this data to understand potential benefits and risks, allowing
them to voice
concerns, suggest improvements, and participate in decision-making
processes.
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Feedback Mechanisms: : The dashboard
facilitates two-way communication between stakeholders, enabling
community members to
provide feedback, report concerns, and suggest improvements. This
promotes a sense of inclusivity, ensuring that their voices are heard
and their
perspectives are considered throughout the project lifecycle.
