The Big Lottery Fund and the Office for Civil Society have surveyed civil society organisations about their use of online services to find out how the services help the sector build learning, and develop skills and capabilities. 

The survey launched at the end of 2011 and ran for just over four weeks, closing on 20 January with 349 civil society organisations filling out the online form.

Respondents answered 13 questions aimed at finding out how they use online services to access advice and support, funding information, and networking opportunities. The survey also asked what other services third sector organisations would like to see online in the future.

BIG and the Office for Civil Society decided to carry out the research together as they have a shared interest in hearing the views of suppliers and users, advised a spokesperson for BIG.

A learning document summarising the findings will be published in the summer and will build on the Supporting Civil Society consultation that was conducted between October 2010 and January 2011. BIG is also consulting on a wider range of topics as part of the Building Capabilities for Impact and Legacy until 15 March.