Data, data, data. It’s seems to be important to all people these days. Technologists talk about where to put it, how to manage it, how to secure it. Data scientists talk about how to analyze and answer questions using modern analytics that were previously difficult, if not impossible to answer. Business leaders talk about it as the means to become more efficient, more effective or gain advantage. Most everyone else talks about how Facebook and Amazon are using it to put offers in front of them, for better or worse.
So, not to be outdone or left out, I’m going to talk about it too – from the perspective of the good things government is doing with it. Over the coming weeks, I’ll be highlighting different examples of government using data to improve the lives of people. Going well beyond using data simply to save money and become more efficient, the examples I’ll be bringing to your attention will illustrate meaningful impact directly to people’s lives.
I have a number of ideas in progress, however, I’m always on the hunt for new stories as well. If you happen to have a story you would like me to highlight, please, drop me a note here on Govloop or at [email protected].
I’m looking forward to bringing great stories to your attention and hopefully some inspiration to help guide you to new ways data can be used.
I’m really looking forward to this as well! Any previews on some topics you have cooking?
Adrian, my first topic addresses the State of Florida’s Safe Harbor program, design to help victims of human trafficking. I’m putting the finishing touches on the first post.
Do you have any topics of particular interest?
That sounds great.
As for my interests, I love data stories of all kinds (I have one cooking up myself), but I am especially interested in the way organizations are using data to improve internal operations — turning the camera around on ourselves, so to speak. Specifically, I’m trying to learn about which sources of information are best in terms of driving decisions to adopt new programs and processes and drop antiquated practices that no longer work. It seems so easy to use the wrong data (or inadvertently misuse the right data), so I’m always looking to learn from people who are doing it right.
No pressure to add that to the queue, though. Maybe others will chime in with their interests.
ah, the efficiency angle! That’s a slightly different approach than I’m intending for this particular series, focusing more on the effectiveness of government right down to the point of engagement with the citizens.
I do like your perspective as well and perhaps, we could collaborate on some ideas going forward.