The West Midlands Cultural Research & Intelligence Group (CRAIG) has been established by the Regional Cultural Forum to take forward the recommendations of the Regional Cultural Research Network Scoping and Options Study (PDF, 114 KB) undertaken by Birmingham University.
CRAIG is an equal partnership whose core aim is to develop best practice in cultural sector research and data collection in the West Midlands. The group's members have committed to sharing data, research findings and intelligence in order to underpin the development of a strong evidence base to make the case for cultural investment in the West Midlands.
The group understands culture to encompass shared, collective experiences and values, not just as a detached commodity that we buy into as a spectator, visitor or participant.
As such, the work of the group comprises four main strands:
- Mapping
- Networking activities
- Evidence development
- Monitoring and evaluation
Through all of these activities the group aims to be the 'voice' on regional cultural research issues.
Cultural Research & Intelligence Group members
The group also seeks to involve, on an ongoing or per initiative basis, representatives of other bodies with an interest in cultural sector research and associated issues. These include, for example:
- The regional Higher Education sector, currently represented by University of Birmingham, University of Central England and Coventry University.
- Representatives from key sub-regional networks and institutions with an interest in cultural sector research and intelligence.
- Representatives from local authorities through the West Midlands Culture and Leisure Officers Association.