Tool

Spatial microsimulation is a method for generating spatial microdata by combining individual (e.g. European social survey data) and geographically aggregated datasets (often census data). It is a method that creates synthetic populations for small areas, including estimated information for variables not available from published sources.

Building on a long history of non-geographical (aspatial) microsimulation, widely used in economics and government policy analysis, spatial microsimulation adds a geographical dimension. It involves creating geographically-referenced microdata for specific localities by merging different datasets, such as census and social survey data. This process simulates populations within households for different geographical units, aiming to closely match the real population's characteristics. Consequently, the merging of survey data, such as the European Social Survey (ESS), with census and other geographical area data, allows the simulation of virtual populations.

By providing detailed estimates at different geographical levels, this method serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making and strategic policy development at various geographical levels, including small areas. This outcome can inform social and area-based policies, such as the number of households with children and income below the official poverty threshold at the neighbourhood level, and estimated social attitudes and behaviours.

The Social Mapping Microsimulation too in the Phoenix project uses the following data:

Census small area statistics:

• Gender
• Age
• Economic activity
• Social and economic status
• Educational attainments
• Income
• Economic dependency
• Nationality
• Residency

European Social Survey (ESS) microdata: 

• Climate change attitudes
• Relevant socio-economic and demographic information