Strategic Use of a Community Database for Planning and Practice

Abstract

ABSTRACT The recent interest in community-based practice calls for intervention strategies that are based on careful planning and thorough assessment of the ecological conditions in today's urban neighborhoods. Having access to accurate and updated community data is an essential tool. This article discusses principles for the development and strategic use of a community database created in a northern industrial city. It is argued that such a community database system must go beyond a technological focus and should assist in building a community infrastructure. Applications of the system for planning and practice at the local level are presented.