Local Government Business Monitor

Following extensive consultation with local government Kirkgate is launching, in conjunction with Spectrum Research, a new research tool to enable local government to assess the performance and issues facing local business.

The Local Government Business Monitor (LGBM) is a new research tool designed specifically for local governments 'both large and small' to assist them in understanding current issues facing businesses within their boundaries. Information gathered can then be used to assist economic development planning in relation to small business assistance etc. LGBM is an online survey which is completed by the business in a few minutes, experience has shown that between 20% and 25% of those contacted will complete the survey. The whole database can be surveyed or (depending on the composition of the database) can be split to survey a particular sector or geographical area.

How does it work?

The vast majority of Local Government’s have a database of local businesses which invariably contains an e-mail address for each business. The Local Government decides whether they want the whole database surveyed or wish to pick a particular geographical area or sector and supplies the e-mail addresses. Kirkgate will then contact those businesses on behalf of the Local Government and encourage their participation. Businesses participate using an online form that takes no more than 10 minutes to complete. The results are compiled in the form of a report which can, if necessary, be used as an attachment to a Council item. The report is basically in two parts. The first part is the Executive Summary which analysis's the results of the survey in the context of local economic development priority areas. The second part gives the results of the survey using text and graphics. Should the local government not have a database of local businesses then the construction of a database is an additional service which can be provided.

How long does it take?

In a straight forward situation the results in report format should be available three weeks from receipt of the database. Sometimes due to holiday periods and public holidays it may be prudent to extend the period when the survey is open for submissions.

What do you get?

You get a report which can be used when planning for business assistance projects and local economic development projects. The report headings are:

• Methodology
• Executive Summary
• Demographics
• Economic and Business Expectations
• Business Sustainability issues
• Business intentions
• Business assessment of the Local Government
• Barriers to Business Growth

What are the benefits to Local Government?

Greater understanding of local business performance
Better understanding of local business needs
Business information for planning purposes
Basic data for economic development decisions
A means of identifying trends at a local level

How much does it cost?

To undertake a Local Government Business Monitor costs $2,700 + GST which includes the following:

• Draft media release explaining why the Local Government is undertaking the survey and encouraging local businesses to be involved.
• On-line survey including link to Local Government website
• Comprehensive report detailing and summarising responses
• Follow up assistance if required.
If the Local Government signs up for more than one Business Monitor then there would be a 10% reduction in price.
Longer Term
Undertaking one survey gives an instant snapshot at a particular point in time however to be even more effective the same survey should be undertaken at least once a year and ideally twice a year. This then gives an idea of trends as they happen and importantly the local government can introduce initiatives to counteract negative trends. Second and subsequent reports will cross reference results and highlight trends.
It is also the intention to benchmark results so that in future Local Governments can monitor performance of their business sector with other similar Local Governments.

Back to top