Chapter 1 Welcome

This is a living document that provides guidance on shared datasets and conventions for research staffs at Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program. If you have any questions or suggestions, please use the “edit” button to submit a request via GitHub.

Data and analytics are core to Brookings Metro’s research and engagements.

The program harnesses a vast array of data to produce high-quality research, which means that the research team relies upon a similar set of tools, datasets and procedures to turn data into actionable information. This includes relationship files across geographies, industries, or occupations, novel classification systems, and data products and practices from our own research. Utilizing a shared data warehouse makes these tools and datasets more accessible and clear standards for dataset and code management ensures we all apply consistent definitions and methodology for our research.

The purpose of this document is to:

  1. describe the structure, function, and contents of Metro’s data warehouse
  2. outline the standard format and style that users must follow when contributing data and code into the data warehouse