Social Indicators
Social indicator studies use previously collected, archival data on geographic areas to examine geo-spatial patterns. Quantitative data are gathered and organized into one data set that is cleaned. Statistical techniques such as correlation, geo-mapping, and spatial analysis are applied so that patterns across time and space can be seen. In addition, different indicators are combined into overall indices to create one overall view of the concept of interest. Results from social indicators studies help planners allocate resources and plan for services around geographic patterns in need.