Capability

Introduction

Capabilities is one of the four pillars, or areas of assessment, of the Global Data Barometer and will be examined as a core module given its foundational importance across all aspects of data activity.

Having data available or having the right rules in place for governing data will not lead to significant public good if a country lacks the capability to create, manage, and use data effectively. Capabilities involve having the opportunity to do something of value and relate to issues of access, skills, infrastructure, institutions, and intermediaries. We also draw upon Gurstein’s notion of effective use.

Many of the capability indicators within the Barometer will draw on secondary data, although a number of primary indicators are also included.

Prospective Indicators

• Capability: Civil service training
• Capability: Open data initiative
• Capability: Government support for reuse
• Capability: Sub-national

Module Development Notes

We will be drawing on secondary data sources to further develop this module; these secondary indicators will be shared publicly at a later date.