The data battle is going to be re-engaged this summer with the arts councils new pay round, with figures being used and manipulated by all sides in the culture milieu to make different points and claims for the value of what they do. But for those who really want take it seriously theres a new tool, and it comes from what should be an impeccable source: Kings College, London.
http://www.thestage.co.uk/columns/funding-matters/2014/05/culturecase-data-tool/