2021-10-12 P&E Agenda - Item 10 - Attachment 1 - Social Return on Investment Evaluation

6.3.1 Networking benefits

 What are some of the new knowledge and skills you have developed through these       Number    Percentage
 networking and professional development events?
 Much improved awareness of local digital community                                   50        83
 Increased networks and collaboration                                                 49        81.5
 More confidence and certainty to progress projects                                   25        41.5
 New digital skills                                                                   24        40
 Greater competency with new software                                                 14        23.5
 Knowledge and skills stayed the same                                                 3         5
 Other                                                                                2         3.5



 To what extent is it easier to network with peers through the Digital Hub,           Number     Percentage
 compared to another work environment or other means?
 Much easier and beneficial                                                           45         75
 Somewhat easier                                                                      8          13.5
 It’s the same as networking more generally                                           7          11.5



 Has this networking and collaboration associated with opportunities created          Number    Percentage
 through the Digital Hub allowed you to create any new business opportunities?
 Yes                                                                                  29        48.5
 In part                                                                              10        16.5
 Not yet but there is potential                                                       14        23.5
 No                                                                                   4         6.5
 No, and unlikely                                                                     2         3.5



 Have the industry events held at the Digital Hub benefitted your career/ projects?   Number    Percentage
 It’s been a significant contribution                                                 23        38.5
 Somewhat                                                                             19        31.5
 A little                                                                             10        16.5
 No benefit/not applicable                                                            5         8.5
 Other                                                                                3         5


Discussion
Respondents indicate the program and events make networking easier, which the majority of respondents find
to be more convenient and beneficial compared to other forms of networking.
While the benefits aren’t quantified, it is apparent the networking initiative is increasing awareness and
knowledge of local capability and resources, generating useful, value-adding collaboration, and generating
business opportunities. Based on the responses, SROI value is being generated in a number of ways, including:

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