Context
As part of a larger programme of work, our client expressed a desire to adopt a data-led approach to support the recovery and future of the city centre. The desired end state is a new data intelligence platform, which is cost-effective, scalable, and robust enough to support current and future requirements. This will allow stakeholders to derive insight to make decisions through the timely availability of data and information.
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Utilise data sources in as ‘real time’ a format as possible
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Develop a digital platform to present, track and update key metrics for scenario planning and contingency measures
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Presented in a format that is easy to consume by non-technical analysts
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Priority dashboards and reports are made available to stakeholders
Solution
Forecast developed an Azure-based solution to integrate multiple data sources ranging from APIs to Files, which Forecast sources on behalf of the client. These were then loaded into a data lake, cleansed and transformed using Azure Functions, Azure Data Factory and Databricks.
A hosted visualisation tool was also developed using PowerBI with Role-Based Access Control for a variety of stakeholders to access the information. The tool brings together footfall, commercial- and residential real estate, car parking, transportation, hospitality, tourism and detailed spend analytics, amongst others.
Value
The end solution enabled the client and their stakeholders to gain access to real-time data and intelligence, which has helped them analyse changes in usage of the city centre. It powers not only decision-making capabilities but also allows technical analysts access to a variety of data sources for their own projects.
