Culture Counts is thrilled to announce the publication of a technical paper for the UNESCO MONDIACULT digital library, which features diverse contributions on cultural policies and impact.
The paper, authored by Executive Chair Michael Chappell and Data Analyst Riley Chappell, is part of Culture Counts’ ongoing research into cultural impact and the creative economy. It outlines practical methods for measuring cultural outcomes using integrated data. The focus is on data collected from publicly available sources as well as through surveys conducted via the Culture Counts evaluation platform. This purpose-built survey tool is widely used by over 800 cultural organisations and local governments across Australia, New Zealand, Asia and England.
Outcome measurement is crucial for Creative Cities as it provides data to demonstrate impact, justify investments and guide policy decision-making. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. The 350 cities around the world which currently make up this network work together towards a common objective: placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans at the local level and cooperating actively at the international level.
“The Creative Cities metrics developed by Culture Counts enable cities to track progress, improve transparency, compare performance and share best practices across the global network. This evidence-based approach helps to build a stronger case for the role of culture in sustainable development. Publication of the Culture Counts Creative Cities metrics in the UNESCO Digital Library is an important milestone in our shared journey to support investment in arts and culture”
– Michael Chappell, Executive Chair, Culture Counts
Culture Counts has worked with Australian Creative Cities including Geelong (City of Design) and Ballarat (City of Craft and Folk Art) to explore the intersection of creative capital, urban policy and measurable socio-economic outcomes. The technical paper directly addresses the reporting framework and guiding principles of the MONDIACULT 2022 Declaration, which recognises culture as a global public good. It emphasises the importance of standardising metrics to ensure transparency, comparability, the sharing of best practices and evidence-based decision-making within the context of Creative Cities.
Incorporating cultural data into urban planning helps local governments and Creative Cities align with MONDIACULT’s goals. The paper calls for greater investment in cultural data, support for cross-sector research and inclusive decision-making that reflects the unique needs of each community.
Becoming a UNESCO Creative City brings visibility, partnerships and opportunities for cultural exchange. If your city needs assistance measuring its activities and MONDIACULT-aligned goals, talk to a member of our team at hello@culturecounts.cc
Image: Courtesy the City of Greater Geelong
