The main objectives are to a) Contribute to setting high standards and highlighting the best practices in data journalism and b) Demonstrate the value of data journalism among editors and media executives.

There are three categories :-

1. Data-driven investigative journalism
2. Data visualisation & storytelling
3. Data-driven applications

The competition is open to media companies, non-profit organisations, freelancers and individuals. Applicants are welcome to submit their best data journalism projects before 10 April 2012 at http://datajournalismawards.org/ submit-your-work/.

To find out more about the competition and how to apply check out  datajournalismawards.org.  If you have any questions about the competition get in touch with the lovely Liliana Bounegru, DJA Coordinator (bounegru [at] ejc [dot] net). Liliana works at the European Journalism Centre

Its 15 minute survey is a review of skills and training needs, which, it says, will “feed into future decisions on skills and training provision for employees and freelancers working in the sector”.

“This is the first time that Publishing has been included in the main Skillset research programme, which means that all forms of journalism will be covered,” says publishing sector manager, Suzanne Kavanagh.

“We’re really keen to ensure we get good coverage, particularly in light of the collaborations between hacks and hackers. It will help capture some of the more technical skills gaps and shortages that are emerging and will feed into future research, skills and training opportunities.”

The survey, www.skillsetworkforcesurvey.com, is open until the 30 September. All contributions are anonymous, non-attributable and comply with data protection legislation. Results will be published towards the end of autumn. Help with accessing the survey can be found at this link.