More than 420 people from around the world have helped shape the future of WorldPop.
Researchers, government analysts, public health specialists, humanitarian practitioners and technical experts responded to our recent user requirements survey, sharing how they use WorldPop data, what works well and where they see opportunities for improvement.
What they told us was both encouraging and challenging. Users value WorldPop’s population data and rely on it to support research, national planning, humanitarian response, health programmes and climate resilience. At the same time, many called for simpler ways to discover data, clearer guidance and more opportunities to learn and connect with other users.
Most importantly, the survey provided a roadmap for future development, and in several areas we’re already taking action.
You want easier ways to explore data
Many respondents told us that they value the breadth of WorldPop datasets, but that finding the right product can sometimes be challenging. Users asked for clearer guidance, better search tools and easier ways to discover data relevant to their work.
We’re already responding.
Earlier this month, WorldPop launched our AI-powered demographic portal at portal.worldpop.org. The new platform is designed to make population data easier to explore, visualise and understand, whether you’re a researcher, policymaker or first-time user.
You asked for more support and training
One of the most important findings was that nearly six in ten respondents identified themselves as either beginners or people looking to use geospatial data in the future. Many asked for more tutorials, workshops, practical guidance and technical support.
We heard you.
Later this year, WorldPop will launch a new Community of Practice platform where you can share experiences, ask questions, learn from peers and showcase how you’re applying population data in real-world projects.
We’re also developing a new online training platform, planned for launch in the new year, bringing together learning resources, tutorials and guided pathways for users at every level of experience.
You want clearer documentation
Across almost every user group, respondents highlighted the importance of better metadata, clearer methods and stronger guidance on when and how to use different datasets.
Whether you’re working on disease mapping, climate adaptation or national planning, understanding what sits behind the data matters.
Improving documentation and metadata is now one of our highest priorities.
You need data that works with modern tools
Technical users asked for improved APIs, cloud-based access, support for platforms such as Google Earth Engine and more flexible data formats. Others wanted easier ways to generate statistics for administrative areas or custom boundaries.
These requests align closely with ongoing work to improve how WorldPop data is delivered and integrated into modern analytical workflows.
This is just the start
These are only the first findings from the survey, and we’ll continue exploring the results in more detail over the coming months.
What we’re most encouraged by is the willingness of the WorldPop community to help shape the future. The survey didn’t just identify challenges. It highlighted opportunities to make population data more accessible, more useful and more impactful for everyone.
So, what do you think?
- Do these findings reflect your experience?
- Are we focusing on the right priorities?
- What would you most like to see from WorldPop next?
The future of WorldPop will be shaped by the people who use it, and we’re grateful to everyone who has helped us take the next step.
