Neighborhood Scan: a neighborhood analysis in collaboration with residents
The neighborhood scan is a participatory measuring instrument that maps the social capital of a neighborhood, in dialogue with its residents. This methodology is based on a few principles of “asset-based community development” or “abcd”. Which spaces lead to encounters, which talents can be used, is it easy for newcomers to find their role in the neighborhood, etc.?
In other words, the neighborhood scan is a neighborhood analysis in collaboration with local residents. By discussing their neighborhood, residents see their local community in a new light. The dialogue exposes all kinds of opportunities, such as interesting collaborations. This method was developed by Vicinia (Dutch and French website only) and hosted by Hoplr’s Knowledge Centre. Our experts carry out the neighborhood scan in four phases. We discuss these below.
Neighborhood Scan Phase 1: Project structure
In this first phase, we sit down with the client – often the town or city council, social service or a local service center. We discuss the entire project. Together, we determine the scope and make some decisions:
- The timing of each phase;
- Which channels will be used for the announcement;
- Which engaged citizens or key people are suitable for an in-depth interview;
- Which tasks will be executed by the client and which by Hoplr;
- Where and when the workshop(s) will take place; and
- How the results will be communicated.
Neighborhood Scan Phase 2: Online and Offline Survey
We start the neighborhood analysis by collecting a lot of interesting data about social relations, spaces, accessibility and activities in the neighborhood. What aspect of the neighborhood are residents satisfied with, what is lacking? We ask a large number of local residents a series of standardized questions. The anonymous survey takes place online, by telephone or on paper. In addition, we conduct in-depth interviews with a few local residents.
Representative survey
The survey is based on a sample. By inviting a limited group of residents on the basis of socio-demographic characteristics (gender, age, origin, income, etc.), we monitor the representativeness of the results.
In order to achieve maximum participation, we apply the Dillman method. Research shows that an invitation and two reminders via addressed mail, of which the second one includes a paper questionnaire, produces the best results.
This guarantees a high participation rate within a representative sample. However, this is no guarantee for correct socio-demographic distribution. That is why the survey is also weighted. Data from underrepresented groups (compared to the population) are weighted more heavily, and vice versa.
In-depth interviews with neighbors
In the survey, we present neighbors with a series of questions that were developed to map out the satisfaction and needs of local residents. By means of in-depth interviews with a number of local residents, however, we can also collect more nuanced information.
The in-depth interviews focus in more detail on needs, experiences and talents. We look at neighborhood stories and subjective experiences. Personal experiences often give a better idea of what is important in a specific neighborhood. For example, which needs exist, where people meet, which organizations or customs are important, which elements make up the identity of the neighborhood…
Relevance for neighborhood analysis
This individual survey prior to the neighborhood dialogue is an important part of the neighborhood scan and brings various advantages:
- The results offer a framework in which the neighborhood dialogue can be conducted;
- the findings of the neighborhood dialogue are compared to those of the broad consultation;
- more citizens are given the opportunity to contribute in an accessible way; and
- awareness within the neighborhood is raised to subsequently take part in the dialogue.
Neighborhood Scan Phase 3: Workshops
We then engage in a dialogue with the neighborhood. The survey in phase 2 allowed us to paint a broad picture of local situations and opinions. But only by promoting cross-fertilisation can we complete the picture. That is why we organize an offline workshop with as many local residents as possible.
Getting started with the neighborhood lens
We present the results of the survey and interviews through the neighborhood lens. The neighborhood lens comprises four themes, being people, spaces, access and activities, each with three subcategories (relationships, talents, participation, housing quality,…). Each of these twelve dimensions is given a score. These scores are represented visually in a wheel.
Neighborhood dialogue methodology
We’ll use the neighborhood lens start a discussion with those present. During the workshop we will:
- see if participants agree with the scores;
- determine what the neighborhood wants to work on;
- identify what the local residents can do themselves;
- what they can work on with the local government; and
- see what connections could lead to fruitful collaborations.
Under the guidance of a moderator, the local residents work on these issues in small groups.
Upon request, this workshop can be preceded by an additional ‘Neighbourhood capacity mapping’ workshop. Here participants list all the positive aspects of the neighbourhood. This way, they discover the potential of the neighbourhood themselves and connections can be made more easily. These strengths of the neighbourhood (organisations, talents, activities, initiatives, places, groups, materials, etc.) can serve as inspiration for solving the “needs” that arise from the neighbourhood dialogue. This extra workshop also ensures a constructive atmosphere, connection and cooperation between participants.
Workshops with the Hoplr Knowledge Centre
The Hoplr team is right at home in community management and therefore knows exactly how to initiate and moderate a dialogue. Citizen engagement expert Anastasia Van den Bossche has a lot of hands-on experience with community projects and fieldwork. Moreover, she is supported by her fellow experts to make the workshop a success: from organization to processing all input.
The Hoplr Knowledge Centre recently organized offline and online participation events for the city of Diksmuide and Boechout, among others. Read more about the entire neighborhood scan process, including workshops, in Papegaaiwijk, Ghent (Dutch only).
Neighborhood Scan Phase 4: Reporting
Finally, our experts provide an extensive analysis. This analysis is translated into a clear report. The report includes:
- a concise summary of methodology and participation rate;
- an overview of relevant findings from the survey and in-depth interviews;
- the neighborhood lens with explanations and scores;
- a short report of the workshop; and
- action points from the workshop.
The result is a document that can be shared with the board, local residents and other stakeholders. It forms an excellent basis for both policy-making and neighborhood initiatives.
Click here to view a report that our Knowledge Centre prepared for the town of Halle earlier this year (Dutch only).
Starting with the Neighborhood Scan
This autumn, the first Hoplr Neighborhood Scans will be launched in Flanders. In addition to the 360° neighbor scan, we are also offering a digital and thematic version. These variants in terms of channel and scope offer a more limited neighborhood analysis to experiment with. Interested? Contact our team for more information on availability.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Neighborhood Scan?
It is a neighborhood analysis carried out with residents to explore local relationships, resources, needs and opportunities for action.
Which methods does a Neighborhood Scan combine?
The described approach combines a survey, in-depth interviews and workshops, followed by analysis and reporting.
Why involve residents in the analysis?
Residents contribute lived experience and knowledge of local places and relationships. Discussing findings together can also generate practical ideas.
What does the final report contain?
The article describes findings from the research, an overview of neighborhood strengths and challenges, workshop outcomes and possible action points.
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