A Methodological Innovation in Measuring Social Mobility –
The Joint Case Study
In a Nutshell
Social and economic mobility describes the potential for an individual or group to shift their socioeconomic status within the society they live in. Sarid Research partnered with Joint-Ashalim to develop a pioneering Social Mobility survey within the fields of healthcare and digital access. Through targeted quantitative research methods, Sarid gathered and analyzed data from over 1,000 participants, yielding insights into socioeconomic factors influencing social-mobility in health literacy, digital literacy, and quality of life. The results now guide policy decisions aimed at enhancing social mobility.
Background
In collaboration with Joint-Ashalim, Sarid Research set out to create a detailed, data-driven assessment of social mobility in Israel, focusing on health and digital access. The project responds to an evolving need for updated metrics to measure social and economic mobility within healthcare and digital realms, providing a foundation for evidence-based intervention strategies.
The Challenge
Policy-makers face a significant challenge in enhancing social mobility, particularly in healthcare and digital access. To address this, The Joint needed a Social Mobility survey focused on health and digital literacy, aiming to uncover socioeconomic factors that affect mobility. This data-driven project was meant to be a basis for policies and interventions to reduce inequities and promote upward mobility across Israel.
More specifically, the primary challenge involved structuring a quantitative research and devising measures (KPIs) that accurately captured the unique dimensions of social mobility in healthcare and digital access within Israel’s diverse population. Sarid needed to design a survey suitable for broad demographic groups while addressing specific sensitivities and regulatory requirements for data collection. Ensuring representative samples from diverse groups required Sarid to develop a nuanced approach for balanced participation across age, gender, and sector (Hebrew and Arabic speakers).
The Solution
Sarid Research developed a 44-item questionnaire that captured data across six core dimensions: health awareness, dietary and pharmaceutical patterns, living environment, health literacy, digital access, and digital literacy. The survey, distributed through a bilingual online panel and supplemented by telephone outreach, reached a representative sample of Israeli citizens aged 18-40.
Sarid managed all research logistics. After gathering the data, Sarid’s team conducted an in-depth analysis, creating indices for each dimension to produce insights relevant to both policymakers and practitioners.
“Sarid Institute proved its capacity to lead complex research that offers a clear picture and vital insights for professionals and policymakers. Their expertise and careful question formulation enabled creative, tailored responses aligned with our needs.”
– Noa Ben-David, Director of Research and Knowledge Advancement, Joint-Ashalim
The Impact
The study has since influenced policy initiatives, serving as a data-driven basis for understanding social mobility challenges in Israel. It highlighted disparities in health and digital literacy, identifying barriers faced by various population groups. Building on these findings, Joint-Ashalim commissioned follow-up studies to continue refining strategies that enhance social mobility.
Conclusions
The success of this research reflects thorough planning, methodological rigor, and ability to align complex research design with the client’s objectives.
Ben-David summarizes: Sarid are attentive and fostered ongoing dialogue and discussions, with flexibility in presenting results across various forums.
About Sarid Institute
Sarid Institute is a strategic Data Science consultancy firm with over three decades of research experience serving a diverse clientele. Sarid accelerates organizations’ growth by discovering the insights driving People, Markets and Customers. We maintain our leading position by continually updating and offering innovative solutions, drawing on the broad expertise of our specialists and leveraging cutting-edge technologies. Our hands-on approach allows us to provide creative, customized solutions that meet the specific needs of each client.