Functionality and Approach

The NSD aggregates and organises publicly available datasets related to education, employment, health, housing, inequality, and social protection in Portugal. It places a strong emphasis on transparency, comparability, and the usability of data through interactive visualisations and downloadable datasets.

Data are provided directly by the organisations through filling in specific forms. They can also be collected through annual reports, surveys, or automated information-gathering systems. Sensitive personal data is anonymised and protected.

Key features include:

• Curated Indicators: The platform features a selection of key performance indicators (KPIs) chosen for their relevance to pressing social challenges and public policy.
• Disaggregation: Data is often disaggregated by geography (e.g. municipality or region), age, gender, and income level, enabling targeted analysis.
• Evidence Translation: The platform complements raw data with briefs and summaries that translate evidence into actionable insights for non-expert audiences.
• Partnerships: The NSD is developed in collaboration with public agencies, think tanks, and civil society organisations, ensuring relevance and trust.

Impact

By centralising access to high-quality social data and promoting a culture of data-informed decision-making, the Nova SBE Social Database supports democratic accountability and public sector innovation. It is also used as a pedagogical tool in Nova SBE’s educational programmes, linking academic enquiry with societal impact.

Relevance to Transition Pathways

The NSD exemplifies how accessible data infrastructures can support the monitoring of socio-economic transition pathways at national and local levels. It facilitates the diagnosis of social needs, tracks progress towards inclusive development goals, and supports the co-design of policies based on shared evidence.