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Sociological data has the ability to display the societal status quo on various levels. Such data can answer questions, including whether people with migrant background obtain a job according to their qualifications and prior experiences; or whether the admission to university of immigrant children raised in Germany stagnates or increases. Such data reveals areas in which targeted interventions may be needed. On the basis of these interventions, after repeated data collection, it is possible to check whether these interventions have had a sufficient impact. This enables legislators and other relevant institutions to steer socio-political developments.

The collection of equality data in a company context allows employers to understand its workforce’s needs and composition. This helps employers to retain qualified personell in the long term. For instance, surveying the demand for kosher, halal, vegetarian or vegan food can offer insights into how a canteen should adapt its offering.

In addition, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have an interest in incorporating sociological data into their work. Such data can be used to support arguments for or against a certain measure, as well as to indicate the need for policy intervention. For example, demonstrating that the police randomly stop and searche young men with dark skin more often than others would offer a clear indication that there is a need for a review of police practices. In order to raise the public’s awareness to certain issues, NGOs depend on facts – as made available through data collection.

Science, as a key player in data collection, is the driving force in putting into action specific research interests. As a political consultant science can identify problem areas and suggest appropriate measures. Similarly, through its help, it is possible to detect the potential effects of a measure.