In a World of Uncertainty, Your Community Already Has the Answers

Polco Blog: In a World of Uncertainty, Your Community Already Has the Answers

When Everything Feels Uncertain, Trust What’s Certain—Your People

From global instability to local challenges—economic shifts, housing costs, rising tensions—today’s leaders face a constant state of flux. In these moments, the pressure to make the “right” decision feels heavier than ever. But the most reliable answers don’t come from guesswork or politics. They come from your community itself.

At Polco, we believe that when local governments listen deeply to their residents—and do so with scientifically valid tools—they unlock the clarity needed to move forward confidently. That’s where Polco Benchmark Surveys come in.

Don’t Guess What People Want. Know It.

Polco’s suite of Benchmark Surveys empowers local leaders to make confident, data-informed decisions by gathering statistically representative insights straight from the people they serve. These surveys are backed by decades of research and designed to help you move beyond anecdotal feedback to true, actionable data.

Whether it’s setting strategic priorities, measuring quality of life, or just making sure everyone’s voice is heard, our surveys give you the solid ground to stand on—even when everything else feels like shifting sand.

Polco’s Gold-Standard Surveys: Clarity Across Every Corner of Community Life

The National Community Survey (NCS)

The definitive voice of the people. The National Community Survey (NCS) captures resident perspectives across 10 essential domains of livability—from safety and mobility to education, economy, parks, health, and beyond. It’s the most widely used and trusted survey for measuring satisfaction and performance across a community. Use it to shape strategic plans, guide public policy, and track your city’s progress against national benchmarks.

The National Business Survey (NBS)

Understand the local business heartbeat. The National Business Survey (NBS) gathers feedback from business owners and operators in your community to identify how you can better support local commerce, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and economic growth.

CASOA: Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults

Focus on the fastest-growing group in your community. Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults (CASOA) provides deep insights into the lives of older adults, helping cities and counties design programs that support healthy aging, accessibility, and senior engagement.

And More—Because Every Voice Matters:

These tools offer a full-circle view of your community, from internal employee satisfaction to how law enforcement is perceived by the public. Together, they provide a rich tapestry of insights to support governance grounded in trust and transparency.

Get the Data. Tell the Story. Take Action

Polco isn’t just about collecting data—we help you do something with it. After your survey, we support you with clear reports, visuals, and public dashboards that turn data into a powerful narrative. Residents see their voice reflected in action, and that builds the kind of trust and momentum every leader dreams of.