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Photo: Harald Eisenberger, on behalf of the City of Weiz

2. Methodology

The methodology employed in this project involved the development of a comprehensive questionnaire in collaboration with the project coordinator, Dr. Doris Wilhelmer, Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH (AIT). This questionnaire was designed to gather essential data from participants, which would then be analysed to form the basis of this report.
Given that the author of this report, Thomas N. Mikkelsen, took over the project in its final phase in October 2024, the information collected from the participants through the questionnaire was indispensable for completing this deliverable. The questionnaire served as a critical tool for capturing insights and data necessary for the analysis and conclusions presented in this report. The collaborative approach in designing the questionnaire ensured that it was tailored to meet the project's objectives, focusing on the key areas of interest and ensuring that the data collected would be relevant and useful for the analysis. This methodological approach facilitated the collection of comprehensive data, which was then analysed to provide a detailed understanding of the project's outcomes and implications.

2.1 Data collection process

The data collection process for this project involved programming the questionnaire into the survey tool Alchemer. This comprehensive questionnaire was then distributed via email to key stakeholders across various locations:
  • Hilde Marie Wold from the municipality of Halden
  • Helene Rødseth from Næringshagen in Østfold
  • Kristina Kamicaityte from the municipality in Alytus
  • Tanja Friess from Innovationszentrum Weiz
  • Thomas Nacht from 4ward Energy in Austria, focusing on business models
  • Annie Eriksson representing Campus Roslagen in Sweden
  • Stian Melhus from Smart Innovation Norway, representing municipality of Marker in Norway
  • Maria Lennartsson representing the municipality of Stockholm
  • Kristiina Mustonen representing Norrtälje
  • Stefan Guggenberger representing Klagenfurt
Given the extensive nature of the questionnaire, the data collection period spanned two weeks. This timeframe allowed participants to thoroughly complete the questionnaire, ensuring that comprehensive and accurate data was collected for analysis.

2.2 Analysis approach 

The analysis approach employed in this project involved a comprehensive examination of the data collected through the questionnaire distributed to various stakeholders across the different Urban Living Labs (ULLs). The Alchemer tool, with its advanced features, facilitated a detailed analysis of the responses both horizontally and vertically. 
Horizontal Analysis: The horizontal analysis allowed for a comparative examination of the responses across different ULLs. This approach enabled the identification of common themes, trends, and patterns that emerged across the various locations. By analyzing the data horizontally, it was possible to:  
  1. Identify Consistencies and Variations: The analysis revealed consistencies in the responses across different ULLs, indicating shared challenges and opportunities. Conversely, variations in the responses highlighted unique issues specific to individual ULLs. 
  1. Compare Responses: The horizontal analysis facilitated a comparison of the responses from different ULLs, enabling the identification of best practices and areas for improvement. 
  1. Understand Contextual Differences: The analysis took into account the contextual differences between ULLs, such as geographical location, cultural background, and local policies, which influenced the responses. 
Vertical Analysis: The vertical analysis involved a deeper examination of the responses from each ULL, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities faced by each location. This approach enabled:  
  1. In-Depth Understanding: The vertical analysis provided a detailed understanding of the responses from each ULL, highlighting the specific needs, concerns, and aspirations of each location. 
  1. Identification of Key Themes: The analysis identified key themes and patterns that emerged within each ULL, which were crucial for developing targeted strategies and interventions. 
  1. Contextualization: The vertical analysis contextualized the responses within the specific ULL, taking into account local factors, such as political, social, and economic conditions. 
Alchemer Tool Capabilities: The Alchemer tool played a critical role in facilitating both horizontal and vertical analyses. Its advanced features allowed for:  
  1. Data Segmentation: The tool enabled the segmentation of data by ULL, allowing for a focused analysis of each location. 
  1. Customizable Reporting: Alchemer's reporting capabilities allowed for the creation of customized reports that catered to the specific needs of each ULL. 
  1. Data Visualization: The tool's data visualization features facilitated the presentation of complex data in a clear and concise manner, making it easier to identify trends and patterns. 
By leveraging the Alchemer tool's capabilities, the analysis approach employed in this project provided a comprehensive understanding of the responses from the questionnaire, both horizontally and vertically. This approach enabled the identification of common themes and patterns across ULLs, as well as a nuanced understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities faced by each location
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