Applied data is the strategic use of data throughout the various phases of the environmental prevention project. Applied data has many applications that change with different phases of the environmental prevention project. Applied data can be used to:

• Identify the magnitude of the problem
• Identify contributing factors/underlying conditions
  
• Identify the potential solutions and their impact
• Provide tools to engage key community sectors
• Provide a scientific basis for policy solutions
• Guide the process and evaluate its effectiveness
• Demonstrate change that occurs within a community

It is essential to systematically acquire useful data and to continue to use the data on a day-to-day basis to inform and guide strategic project decisions. Unlike many prevention “programs” which follow predefined implementation instructions, environmental prevention projects rely on real-time data and observations to determine the best ‘next steps’ of the project.

Some types of data collection useful for environmental prevention:

• Community Readiness Assessment for policy-focused solutions
• Environmental or Causal Factor Assessment to identify contributing or underlying community conditions
• Media coverage analysis
• Public opinion polls that measure community awareness
• Public opinion polls that measure community support for policy change
• Law enforcement data
• DUI/ MIP Offender Survey
• Place of Last Drink Survey
• GIS mapping of alcohol outlets and alcohol related crime or youth-sensitive areas