ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we argue that the value of data is realised through its own characteristics and by the way it can be used in particular contexts. To address how data and open data may have value requires understanding data, data types and how data is constituted and open for use. Policymakers, scientists, government and civil society organisations are all developing definitions and understandings of data and open data. There is some variation, but each of these actors is contributing to the general understanding. Once the characteristics of data are understood, then it is important to examine how data may be used to develop a knowledge society. This means considering what the social relations of mobilisation are, by addressing data ecosystems in research processes. In this chapter, we consider three types of data: open research data, open government data and big data.
