ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role data plays in government, whether it be open, big, structured, or unstructured. One of government's key roles is the collecting, storing, analyzing, and dissemination of data. The US Constitution stipulates that a census must be taken of the United States population every ten years – hence the Census Bureau. Public sector organizations gather birth records, marriage licenses, and records of other historic moments of the people they serve. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, many important records from various government agencies were damaged or lost due to poor storage methods, flooding, or fire. Data-informed decision-making is more scientific than traditional methods of relying on “gut instincts.” Some of the best examples of practical applications of big data can be found at the local government level. Organizations in both the private and public sectors will need to engage their users and citizens in ongoing conversations about privacy.
