Project LODE: Local Open Data Economy

How can Open Data make a difference in the next 10 years?

What is LODE?

LODE, in full Local Open Data Economy, is a project of the cities of Ghent and Bruges. In it, we explore the social and economic potential of Open Data.

What is the goal?

Open Data offers many possibilities. However, today it does not yet fulfil all its promises. In the LODE project, we investigate why this is the case and what we can do about it.

We want to discover how Open Data can make a difference in the next 10 years. To find out, we analysed the policies of other European cities, conducted a survey and conducted interviews.

What are the results?

Challenges

The study reveals some challenges for Open Data. For instance, there is currently little visibility on data needs and requirements and realised added value. Because of that, Open Data is mainly determined by the providers and is treated as rather non-committal.

Moreover, a clear (supra-local) vision around Open Data is lacking. If we clearly define roles and responsibilities, we will counter the prevailing non-committal attitude. Furthermore, investments are needed in the capacity of the Open Data operation.

Recommendations

To solve the challenges, the report provides a series of recommendations. These are addressed to local governments and linked to advice for supra-local government.

The report in a nutshell

Where do I read more?

Can't wait to delve into all the results? Good news! You can read the full report below. You can also find the roadmap for local governments here.

The LODE project is co-funded through the City of Things programme.