Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's data team started using R and Shiny for enhancing data analysis in children's and public health departments.

Leveraging these open-source tools has allowed for more efficient data processing, integration, and the development of bespoke analysis projects, including interactive apps. This initiative has led to faster, more insightful information delivery, aiding decision-making and service improvement. The journey involved overcoming challenges with IT and procurement but ultimately showcased the benefits of open-source tools for reliable, auditable, and timely data analysis.