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Strengthening Data Governance for Effective Use of Open Data and Big Data Analytics for Combating COVID-19
Summary
Governments are highly dependent on all data including official statistics, administrative data, open data and big data analytics for decision-making and actions to address the COVID-19 pandemic. These data allow governments to set priorities and adjust their decisions quickly and effectively in response to rapidly evolving COVID-19 situations. Open data and big data analytics, particularly through Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms and data visualization tools, are empowering governments to predict virus mutations, track virus spread in real-time, and identify medications for treating COVID-19. Governments are using big data analytics to get prepared, react effectively, and develop both shortterm and long-term strategies. Yet, increasing public concerns about data privacy and security put in jeopardy public trust in data collection, use and dissemination by government, business and relevant non-government institutions. To ensure effective use of open data and big data analytics for combatting COVID-19, it is necessary to strengthen data governance with regard to data collection, data partnership, data analysis, data dissemination, and protection of data privacy and data security.
A holistic and whole-of-government approach to data governance will not only help address public concerns about data privacy and enhance public trust but also support institutional coordination, mobilize concerted actions, and streamline government operations as a whole.