Consumer data for big data research: An introduction to data, services and research from the Consumer Data Research Centre

Consumer data is a key source of new and novel data or “Big data”. Data previously available only within businesses are increasingly becoming available for researchers to use. These consumer data can be used to examine a wide variety of research questions. But how can you as a researcher get access to these kinds of data and what kinds of analyses could you do with them?

Funded by the ESRC as part of Phase 2 of the Big Data Network, the Consumer Data Research Centre (CDRC) provides researchers with access to a range of consumer data through its three-tiered service; from open and safeguarded datasets that can be downloaded, to controlled data accessed via a secure environment. At this event, managers and researchers from the CDRC will give an overview of the Centre’s data holdings and service, training and knowledge exchange opportunities and some examples of research using consumer data.

Organised by the CMIST Data, Skills and Training research group, this event is free to attend and includes a free buffet lunch.

Programme

9.30: Registration/Coffee

10.00: Tom Fleming – CDRC Data and Data Service

10.40: Researcher 1 – Vedran Lesic: ‘Do consumers know how much electricity is used by their appliances? Answers from big data’

11.10: Tea/Coffee

11.30: Amy O’Neill – CDRC Training and Capacity Building Activities

12.00: Researcher 2 – Rachel Hollis: ‘Encouraging individuals to choose more environmentally friendly products - the role of big data’

12.30: Close

12.40: Buffet lunch and networking