Open Data has always been and will always be about placing “The Right Data, into the Hands, at the Right Time, Changing the World.”
As we see some regions around the world maturing their regimes whilst others come online, my wish is to see the proverbial “Carrot and Stick” approach be sidelined, with the spotlight placed firmly on “Value Realisation” by the consumer. I hope to see an increase in Collaborative Data Initiatives leading to Greater Consumer Engagement with the realisation that access and control through privacy-focused data channelling into fit-for-purpose Use-Cases can change lives/livelihoods. Success for Open Data is when the user no longer focuses on the puppet strings or rails as the Industry refers to them; and, is not burdened by how it works, but rather the user experience that Open Data allows. Will it increase Data Literacy? It should. Will it provide enhanced consumer experiences and create greater internal efficiencies for the Data suppliers? Quite possibly. Will we see a greater focus on Tech being built with Privacy-by-Design? Definitely.
2024 will see the continued adoption of Open Data practices; some mandatory, some voluntary; ALL will benefit consumers in the long run. 2024 will also be the year that increased focus on the burden of participation must be considered. If we prevent sections of the Industry from participating, we will scuttle Open Data before we even start. 2024 will also be the year of closing the loop between data sharing and action initiation. Without this final piece of the puzzle, the incentives for consumers to adopt Open Data for “part of their requirements” just don’t make sense. If it doesn’t satisfy their entire needs, why change from the antiquated but familiar practices that already exist?!
