Indicators of data available for key African cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available for Africa on the cities listed below. Please note that the checking process for data in this region may take longer due to complexities of language and culture.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current Africa Cities Data List

Please Ask

Notes: These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation, and are updated regularly, as at 7th January, 2012.

Boundaries are typically based on the definition as reported to the U.N. (for larger cities), or the most reliable local definition.

Other Cities

Detailed cities data can also be requested for other population centres in this region above 500,000. We can provide the same standard indicators on these cities, with around 7-28 days additional time allowed for checking process. Data in these countries for smaller populations, may take longer to validate.

Indicators of data available for Russian and New Republic cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available for Russia,and the New Republics such as Ukraine, on the cities listed below. Please note that the checking process for data in this region may take longer due to complexities of language and culture.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current Russia & new Republics Cities Data List

Please Ask

Notes: These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation, and are updated regularly, as at 7th January, 2012.

Boundaries are typically based on the local govt definition as reported to the U.N. (for larger cities).

Other Cities

Detailed cities data can also be requested for other population centres in this region above 100,000. We can provide the same standard indicators on these cities, with around 7-28 days additional time allowed for checking process. Data in these countries for smaller populations, may take longer to validate.

General Questions

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Who are 2thinknow?

2thinknow are an innovation agency. We provide city benchmarking data broken down into cities, trends and segments (economic or social sectors). We are professionals at commercial analysis of city performance for decision makers.
See www.2thinknow.com for details.

Do you use academic sources?

Yes, we quote academic research to clients in our data (qualitative and quantitative).

Will you quote my academic research?

If you have published interesting city level data, let us know. We may quote to clients.

How is city benchmarking data compiled by 2thinknow?

City benchmarking data is compiled by 2thinknow graduate analysts, analysts and senior analysts.

How are your graduate analysts qualified and experienced?

Graduate analysts have a Masters degree from a major Australian university in a disciplines such as analysis, I.T., business, business admin, commerce or similar.

What is the difference between graduate analysts and analysts?

Analysts have a minimum 240 hours specialist city data training, plus a Masters degree. Senior analysts have similar post-graduate qualifications, and an average of 5+ years professional analyst experience.

When will you hire more analysts?

We engage analysts based on projects. As projects commence we will hire analysts on contract.

Do you have an intern program?

Yes. Available in Melbourne Australia.

Where are you based?

We are based in Melbourne, Australia under contracts.

How do you benchmark different data?

We use a banding approach, common in consulting, and similar to Economist I.U., Mercer and others.

Who decides the benchmarking scoring bands?

Senior analysts &/or Executive Director in an annual review process.

What makes 2thinknow standard city indicators different from a statistic?

The standard city indicators are combinations of quantitative and qualitative data points about a city. They are then bench marked scored (partly with classifications and algorithms, partly like grading term papers).

Do you hire outside analysts?

Yes, in future we may based on demand. Everyone has to be trained identically the 240 hours however. We currently prefer to train graduates.

Can your analysts provide aggregate numbers (state or national)?

Yes. When you purchase city data these are typically included. They may be the basis of city estimates.

How do you measure subjective elements, such as museums?

We collect as much data as we can on the museum, and provide the best available data in our standard indicator for that element. We then benchmark this across the majority of benchmark cities. This provides a true global comparative.

Are benchmark score combative?

Yes. If some cities receive a higher benchmark scores, other cities will fall, either this year or next. Think of it as distribution of scores on a curve.

I just want state or national data statistics, can you provide this?

Yes. We can provide only state or national data for most indicators. Each state or nation then is treated as a location. This saves money, as you only need the state / nation, not each city in a state.

For state/national, do you have a suggested breakdowns?

Yes, we have a list of around 200-300 locations for most requests. This is 50 U.S. states, major European states, and all major European, American and Asian region nations. It can include Mid-East and some of Africa. Islands are excluded by default.

Can customers use our own regions (e.g. based on electoral boundaries)?

Yes we can produce custom data at these levels for most indicators. Please ask.

Can customers ask for NUTS, U.N. or another standard region definition?

Yes, we hold data for NUTS 1,2, and 3.

How can I order your population data?

Purchase our population indicator as part of a set, to receive all population data we hold.

I would like different population boundaries for data I order, can I get them?

Yes. We will modify the indicators we can with the new boundaries, or note where different boundaries are use, in the analyst notes.

Can you use electoral boundaries?

Yes, we can map our indicators to electoral boundaries.

Can you use European NUTS definitions of boundaries?

Yes, we map our definitions to European NUTS classifcations (mostly down to Level 2 at this stage). We have a matching table, which we can offer on custom process.

Can you do data at a NUTS level 3?

Yes, we can create interesting creative indicators at NUTS level 3, that are not in Euro Stat.

Can use U.S. Census, Stats Canada, United Nations or other definitions of urban boundaries?

Yes, in most cases. Any additional work aggregating or dis-aggregating data, would be added.

Can clients substitute their own city populations?

Yes, on indicators where we can plug in population figures. Please let us know when requesting a proposal.

If you are a city government, you can advise us of official population figures for your city, and if the figures meet our review process, we will permanently update all data.

Can 2thinknow analysts dis-aggregate or aggregate cities data?

Yes, for custom indicators, analysts can produce St Paul or Minneapolis (rather than Minneapolis-St. Paul, our default).

Can you provide suburban data for our suburb?

Yes. As a a custom project.

What sort of statistical data can you provide?

Almost any stat where there is data captured at a regional or city level.

Do you use original surveys, or aggregate others data?

We aggregate others data, applying unique processes to standardize and benchmark it. We have in the past used city surveys in a limited capacity.

When you dis-aggregate can you adapt other’s data?

Yes, mostly. We can sometimes further breakdown aggregate data into more detail using ratios and algorithms.

I have seen a 2009 city survey, has the data changed?

Yes. We now collect 400% more data on average per city. The guidelines for benchmarking have also substantially changed, as we have expanded the collection program.

Can I have an old city survey for reference?

No. We use analysts now to collect information. The survey data received did not meet our strict requirements, and the scoring bands have changed substantially since 2008-2009.

Will you release another survey?

We intend to use a short form survey as a cross-check in future years, but our model is primarily analyst-driven since 2009.

Can I get more details on your methodology?

Only customers have access to real data and relevant methodology. All customer data is transparently sourced, and guaranteed best available. Our methodology is proprietary and subject to commercial restrictions.

Pricing Questions

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Do you have fixed pricing for data on one city?

Single City Data-sets [SCD] — actual performance data on any city — have fixed pricing.

What does my Single City Data-set include?

162 indicators of quantitative and qualitative data up to 4 data points, in Excel and PowerPoint format.With explanatory analyst notes, all ready to go.

How do I order a Single City Data-set for my city?

Use the online order form or PDF order form here.

If I order one city can I see my city’s relative performance?

Yes. All data is benchmark scored. And this includes scoring data on the benchmark levels.

How can I get the best value for my city with a subscription?

Yes our Innovation Cities™ Annual Platinum Subscription is the best value offer, as it includes a Single City Data-set, with all updates, the Innovation Cities™ Analysis Report, personal analyst briefings and more.

The Innovation Cities™ Annual Platinum Subscription is the best way to save, whilst receiving full access to 2thinnow analysis for one city.

Who is a Innovation Cities™ Annual Platinum subscription best for?

Anyone tracking a city (or cities), that needs complete data on that city and how the city benchmarks globally.

An example is city government or city research agencies.

Can I order multiple Innovation Cities™ Annual Platinum subscriptions for more than one city?

Yes. You can order as many as you need. This would suit those wanting complete city performance and details on many cities. There is a 12-15% discount available on 2 or more subscriptions to the one customer.

Can you provide me with more details of the Platinum subscription?

Yes. Contact our analysts: www.2thinknow.com/feedback

How do I get pricing for a mix of many cities, many indicators?

Request a proposal here. This will normally arrive within 72 hours, sometimes sooner.

What is this mix of many cities, many indicators called?

A Comparative City Data-set, or CCD, for short.

How does your pricing scheme work for many cities many indicators?

Simple. Pricing is Per Location per Indicator x Tier.

So 10 cities X 15 standard indicators = 150 standard tier 1 indicators at the current tier 1 price.

I have a list of indicators, and locations can you get me data?

For a price, request a proposal listing the indicators and locations. You can attach a spreadsheet or word doc as well, or email us.

I know what I want to find out, but have no idea about indicators, can you help?

Yes. We can provide you an indicator list for your research question.

Where will I find my indicator list?

On the second page of your Proposal.

Can I send you my research question for pricing?

Yes. Send through, if you keep under one page, or a few excel sheets, we will be able to respond faster.

Can you suggest cities or locations that may fit my brief?

Yes. It helps if you have a general direction, so add any notes you have to the RFP form, even if incomplete.

Will you do detailed preliminary research and create sample data-sets for free?

No. If you do want preliminary research, there is a (reasonable) charge for our analysts time. This is how we keep prices low.

I have a list of indicators, and locations can you get me data?

For a price, request a proposal listing the indicators and locations. You can attach a spreadsheet or word doc as well, or email us.

Can you provide pricing on states or national data, how do you do this?

Yes, we treat each geographic state or nation as a single location for pricing. Request a proposal here

How do you compare on price for national data?

We are lower cost than management consultants. We will also save you considerable time.

Will you sell data to consultants, for me to work-up into a report?

Yes, in many locations. Some terms apply — Request a proposal here

Do you charge more for my express data work?

No. Ask when ordering.

What is the best way to get a price for many cities many indicators?

Request a proposal. (You knew we’d say that)

What are the tiers?

Tier 1 are our standard indicators. Tier 2 or 3 are custom type indicators. The more custom the data, the more we use tier 2 or 3.

Where can I find the Tiers?

Your front page of Proposal will spell out which you were quoted on, and current pricing.

Page 2 of your Proposal will break down the indicators into Tier 1, 2, and 3.

Your pricing on your Proposal seems very affordable, how is this possible?

We specialise in city data, and have new approaches and economies of scale from tracking 330 benchmark cities.

Will prices rise?

Prices in your Proposal are fixed (subject to excessive currency volatility). Good news, but prices overall may rise in 2012.

Can you explain best available data?

Rather than not provide data, we use a hierarchy of evidence to provide best available city level data.

I received your Proposal, how can I get a full sample for one location?

For a sample, you will need to order one location, plus a set-up fee to cover our time.

Would you consider raising your prices and offering free samples?

We prefer lower prices for customers.

What changed in 2010, how did your process change?

In 2010 we commenced our graduate analyst training program. We use Masters-qualified analysts for all data gathering, which is done in Australia. In 2011 we entered full data production. We no longer use surveys, except as occasional checks.

Do I get more data in 2011?

We include around 4 data points per indicator in 2011, rather than one data point as in 2009. We also include now slides as standard.

Is there a minimum data order?

Yes. Normally this is USD $1,500.

How can I order less than a minimum charge?

We can charge a set-up fee of USD $500 for all orders under USD $1,500 or equivalent. This covers our costs in setting up files.

Do you waive the set-up?

Yes on all orders for data delivered in one engagement over USD $1,500.

Do I need to take the slides?

No. We offer a variety of pricing. There is a small discount for no slides included.

What is your price guarantee?

2thinknow guarantee prices will not vary more than 10% in any 12 month period. (Excludes currency fluctuations)

Which currencies do you use?

To make it easy for customers we quote fixed prices in major global currencies (USD, EURO, GBP, CND, AUD, YEN).

What is the main reason for minor variations in pricing?

To reduce currency fluctuation we always price in your currency which includes a buffer for volatility.

What is your base currency?

All prices are normally calculated in Australian dollars, as we ship from Australia. In some cases, we use USD$ as a base currency.

Is there any tax payable?

Australian customers pay 10% GST (sales tax). International customers pay no tax from us as merchant.

Are there any Australia discounts?

Only Australian government receives a discount, which is offset effectively by the cost of the Australian 10% sales tax.

Why has pricing for City Benchmarking Data risen in price since 2009?

The original 2007-2009 model was survey-based, and was in early stage pre-beta. The 2011 release is full production release.

Do you still use city surveys?

All data is collected using proprietary techniques by qualified analysts, and are designed by senior analysts to show actual performance. We may use spot surveys to supplement this. The source will be disclosed in your data.

Is there data you cannot provide?

Yes. We will tell you when you make your request, however, if you have some minor flexibility we will be able to arrange similar data.

Ordering Questions

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Can I pay by Credit card?

Yes, we prefer credit card payments.

Which cards do you accept?

Visa, Master Card and Amex.

How can I give you my card?

You can call or fax us at the details here — contact 2thinknow

Note details have recently changed.

I have received an invoice, can you call me?

Our accounts people can call you in your time zone, and get your card details. If you choose this option, we will email you the procedure.

How do you charge my card?

We charge your card in Australian dollars, converted according to the mid-market rates at currency site: Xe.Com

Where will the charge appear from?

From Simple netaprise pty ltd, our trading company.

How are we both protected?

Your credit card in most countries will insure your transactions. We are also insured, by our merchant provider.

Why do you use credit cards?

Speed. Credit cards make it quick to start work.

If I pay by credit card, when will my work start?

Your work will be approved immediately our terminal processes your payment.

Can we pay by PayPal as well?

Yes, of course. We can email you a PayPal invoice, which you can pay at PayPal via credit card or bank account.

How does PayPal work?

See PayPal – www.paypal.com

Can I pay another way?

Yes by approval. International Money transfer, Money Order, Company / Bank Cheque (or Check).

Contact us www.2thinknow.com/feedback

Do you accept Purchase Orders or Terms?

Yes but only by prior arrangement, and only from Government. We do not accept terms from corporations.

If I am ordering a large amount of data can I just pay a deposit?

If your order is over a certain limit, we can propose a deposit or schedule of invoices. This will be in your Proposal.

Will you proceed without some form of payment?

No. International transactions require trust. With a credit card we are both protected (you by your issuer, us by our merchant bank).

The only exceptions to this are for Australian government, and established client relationships with large organizations in key markets.

What card processing service do you use?

We use a merchant account with one of Australia’s 4 largest banks. This requires approval, with additional requirements for an Amex merchant account.We process all payments on paper, using a physically secure EFTPOS terminal.

Do you store credit cards online?

No. All card details are stored offline.

Can I email you our credit card details?

You can, and we do encrypt our email (HTTPS/SSL) connection. However, email is sent unencrypted, so we do not recommend this.

I work for a large organization in a Western country, and and have some other purchasing requirement or process not answered here. Can you help?

We can. Please contact 2thinknow, and we will try to be flexible. We understand corporate/government purchasing policy. Note this flexibility only applies to Europe, Australia, NZ, USA and Canada.

The only constraint is we do not ever ship digital products without some form of security.

What locations will you not accept orders from?

Due to issues with payments from some locations we may request additional information, or refuse to accept an order from some locations.

Do you refuse Proposals or work to some customers?

Not often, but we reserve all rights — including the right to refuse custom without explanation or offence. This may based on many reasons, but is most often due to — workload / analyst availability, a client being in a similar industry to us or another client and/or other professional conflicts between clients, or any client risk.

If we refuse a genuine request for proposal we will email you. However, we may not provide reasons due to client confidentiality.

If you have received a Proposal, and you have not acted on it within a reasonable time frame, we may refuse also.

I have other questions not covered here.

Please contact us any time: www.2thinknow.com/feedback

Shipping Questions

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Once I order City Benchmarking Data how long will it take to ship?

Typically 2-4 weeks, or as specified on your Order Form &/or Proposal.

Can you ship City Benchmarking Data sooner?

Yes, upon request. Let us know when you order. There is no added charge.

How do you ship City Benchmarking Data?

Via email, or other methods via request.

Where do you ship to?

For Single City Data-sets (almost) anywhere in the world, subject to approval.

For Comparative City Data-sets, most locations.

Where do you ship from?

Melbourne, Australia. All work is done in Melbourne, Australia.

If my email does not arrive?

Please let us know, either via email or phone.See www.2thinknow.com/feedback

Will I need a password?

No. All files send in Excel, PowerPoint or other office software.

Is there any encryption on my file?

Not by default. You can request encryption for specific data projects. This would be typically done on custom projects.

Can you upload to Share point or Dropbox?

Yes, just give us login details.

Do you have intent to set-up a customer forum?

Yes this is scheduled for mid-2012.

Can you consult face to face on data and metric design?

Yes, 2thinknow have an innovation consulting service available in your location. Ask us when you request your proposal.

Do 2thinknow have innovation consultants in my location?

Our analysts will most likely travel in and out from your location. We do metric design in consecutive days.

Can 2thinknow do metric or data design innovation training?

Yes, as part of the Innovation Course™ — and as a special Team Course for your company. See the Innovation Course™.

Can you help our company or department workshop new innovation metrics?

Yes. See the Innovation Course™. It is delivered face to face at your office, in these locations.

Can I specify industry data, or areas of training or change anything in our training?

Yes. The Innovation Course™ by 2thinknow can be fully customized for clients, exactly as you like.

Where can I get more details on innovation training?

See the Innovation Course™ for more details.

Can you do benchmarking data services via video conference?

Platinum subscribers for one city have this included for all future projects. We can provide this service at a reasonable added charge.

What versions of Excel can I use?

We ship in Excel 2003 or 2007. You can also request, with some additional notice Excel 1997 or Excel 2007.

What versions of Power Point do you ship?

PowerPoint slides in 2007 version. We can also ship in 2003 to 1997, if you advise us prior.

Can you ship data in other Office software platforms?

Yes, via prior arrangement Apple Office, Apple iWorks, SmartSuite / Lotus and Open Office. Please ask for other software productivity apps.

Does your data work with Google Docs?

All Microsoft Office files are compatible with Google Docs. However, formatting may appear better in paid software.

Indicators of data available for U.S. cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available on the U.S. cities listed with state below.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current U.S. Cities Data List

Notes: These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation, and are updated regularly, as at 7th January, 2012.

Boundaries are typically based on the U.S. government definition. Cities marked with a * can also be scored as separate entities upon request.

Other U.S. Cities

Detailed cities data can also be requested for other United States population centres above 100,000. We can provide the same standard indicators on these cities, with around 3-14 days additional time allowed for checking process.

A simple list of U.S. cities can be found at Wikipedia.

Other American Cities

Cities data can be requested also for Canadian and Latin American cities, as well as the global list.

These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation as at 7th January, 2012. This list is being continually updated.

Detailed cities data can also be requested for other Chinese cities. A basic list of major Chinese cities by population can be found at Wikipedia. We can provide up to 162 indicators of data on all these cities.

Other Cities

Cities data can be requested also for all global cities. See locations.

Notes: * Classified as one location, or can be classified as two separate cities.

Indicators of data available for Europe’s cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available for all of Europe on the cities listed by country below.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current Europe Cities Data List

Notes: These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation as at 7th January, 2012. This list is being continually updated.

Detailed cities data can also be requested for other European cities or agglomerations over 100,000 population.

* Can be classified as one location, or as two separate cities.

Other Cities

Cities data can be requested also for all global cities. See locations. Separate data exists for Russia and Mid-East (classification includes Turkey and Israel)

Indicators of data available for Asian cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available for Asian on the cities listed with country below. See also these separate lists: Chinese cities data & Oceania Cities data.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current Asian Cities List

Notes: These benchmark cities 2thinknow analysts monitor for innovation as at 7th January, 2012. This list is being continually updated. Detailed cities data can be requested for other Asian cities.

Japanese cities (due to proximity and connectedness) can be divided into a variety of different urban centres, so full data available for more cities.

* Classified as one location, or can be classified as two separate cities.

** Data on this city in North Korea is based on estimates, and largely qualitative factors.

Other Cities

Cities data can be requested also for all global cities. See locations.

Indicators of data available for Canadian cities.

Standard Indicators

Standard indicators are available for Canada on the cities listed with state below.

You can also download a global list of all cities in Excel.

Current Canada Cities Data List

Notes

* Fredericton-St. John can be classified as one location, or as two separate cities.

Other Canadian Cities

Detailed cities data can be requested for most other Canadian population centres above 100,000. We can provide the same standard indicators on these cities, with around 3-14 days additional time allowed for checking process.