Meeting users where they are: Online drop-ins as a training resource for data users

Users of survey data in the UK are able to seek support through many different channels - from asynchronous training resources, to online events, and email helpdesks. Though useful, these traditional formats may not always cover the full range of guidance required, particularly when users themselves are often uncertain about exactly what kind of help they need.

To address this gap, starting in January 2024, the UK Data Service introduced a series of online ‘drop-in’ sessions - a supportive space designed to offer free help and advice to anyone working with survey data, regardless of their project stage or experience level.

This presentation outlines the experience and knowledge gained from running these sessions, covering the profile of the participants, their range of needs, how the sessions were adapted to meet these, and the next steps planned.

It concludes that drop-in sessions have the potential to be a valuable addition to the range of training and user support tools offered by data services, bridging the gap between asynchronous training, and more formal avenues of help.