Hampton Roads Performs

Last Tuesday, I attended the launch of Hampton Roads Performs, the first regional version of Virginia Performs, itself an initiative of the Council on Virginia’s Future. On hand for the launch were Governor Tim Kaine, who chairs the council, vice chair John O. (Dubby) Wynne, Hampton Roads Partnership chair Dana Dickens and representatives from the 17 communities that make up the region.

In his remarks, Governor Kaine echoed the words on Council’s website for the need to have measurable goals. There are, he said, critical indicators for having a successful state. Virginia Performs is a model that has been used for decision-making at the state level. Hampton Roads Performs can be used to drive regional decisions.

Over a year in the making, the regional website features 19 indicators grouped under three strategic goals:

• Quality workforce through education
• Competitive economy
• Modern transportation infrastructure

In addition, there are another 17 indicators covering natural resources, health and family, public safety, and government and citizens. Combined, the indicators give the reader an overall sense of the quality of life in Hampton Roads.

At a glance, you can view all 36 indicators on the Hampton Roads Scorecard and see how the region in progressing. For example, taxation is worsening, as shown by the downward pointing arrow. Clicking on the indicator will take  you to the detail page on that item. In addition to an explanation of the topic, you have graphs (click on them to enlarge) that compare Hampton Roads to other regions as well as the Commonwealth. You are also able to see what sources have been used to come up with the data. (The plan is to update the data once a year, as new information becomes available.) Another interesting feature on the detail page is links to regional programs and initiatives, such as those shown on the School Readiness page.

Who will use Hampton Roads Performs? While it may be geared towards electeds and the business community, I believe there is a wealth of information there for ordinary citizens. I know it will be a source of information for me.

The only thing I see missing is interactivity. There is a comment link, where you can send a message, but that’s about it. I’d love to see more opportunity to comment. Perhaps a separate forum, linked to the site, where people can discuss the topics. I would think that some feedback such as that would be useful, even though having a forum brings its own set of issues.

What do you think? Is the website useful?