Open data : turning data into information, and information into insights that allow for evidence-based policy

This paper summarises the results of research into the legislative, policy, regulatory and operational enablers utilised in selected advanced jurisdictions (UK, US, France, Canada, New Zealand, the Netherlands and Denmark) as identified in the Open Data and Open Government Indexes which promote Open Data, a culture of data sharing and that can help inform future strategic developments in other jurisdictions. Open data presents the opportunity for industry, researchers and government to use previously privately held datasets to run analytics, turn data to information and information into insights that allow for evidence base policy. This paper analyses best practices from leading jurisdictions including analysis on legislation, responsibility and coordination, policies, regulatory settings, and operating environments as well as discusses exemplary open data projects, outcomes and applications.