It’s one thing to put performance data online where the public can access it. It’s another to make the data meaningful.

While an online “dump” of data might fulfill the requirement for transparency, it doesn’t guarantee that any real communication is taking place between the local government and its residents. Here are a few tips to help you mold a mass of figures into an effective online presentation that puts the numbers into context:

• Limit what you report: Don’t inundate the public with numbers. Your goal is to increase their understanding. So focus on measures that you want them to remember—such as how long it takes to resolve a code violation complaint, or how residents rate parks and recreation services.
• Explain how the data relate to the community vision or mission statement—or to a “sore spot” that you have committed to addressing. And share your goals for improvement in any areas that don’t measure up to expectations.
• Include graphics: A chart or map can be worth a thousand words. Don’t skip the narrative, but use visuals to supplement it.

ICMA and the Alliance for Innovation brought together three experienced panelists to provide additional suggestions for how to package that flood of data, help residents interpret it, and achieve a more effective community dialogue on performance