Participatory data analysis, also called a "data party," is group-level analysis of data that allows stakeholders to help interpret and provide context to the findings rather than an evaluator or internal staff analyzing and interpreting results by themselves.

Data parties are one tangible way to apply cultural humility to the process of data collection and analysis. By making space for participants to provide their interpretations of the results, the evaluator allows for alternate and even outside-the-box explanations and meaning.  It can also serve as an occasion to pause and ask whose voices or perspectives are being overlooked and still need to be included.

Resources and further reading

Data Parties: Inviting Community Perspectives into Analysis (November 2019)