Understanding challenges in data sharing

The Open Data Institute (ODI) wanted to better understand the challenges businesses face when sharing their data in order to identify how ODI initiatives could support increased data-sharing practices. This was critical for enabling businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape that relies on secure and accessible data.

I led research efforts by conducting interviews with subject matter experts across five sectors: extraction, fintech, transport, healthcare, and environmental. These interviews focused on uncovering existing data-sharing practices, identifying barriers, and exploring potential solutions. Detailed notes and observations were collected and collaboratively analyzed with the project team using thematic sorting. This process highlighted common challenges while accounting for sector-specific nuances.

The findings informed a set of actionable recommendations for the ODI to support businesses in these sectors, including strategies for addressing trust, governance, and transparency challenges. I facilitated brainstorming sessions with the team, resulting in a range of proposed solutions for businesses, as well as broader contributions to the ODI’s ongoing development of its data trust model.

The research provided the ODI with a clearer understanding of cross-sector challenges and opportunities in data sharing. It directly supported the refinement of their data trust model and enabled them to develop targeted initiatives to promote collaboration and improve data governance across industries.

For more information, read this article on the ODI website: https://theodi.org/article/why-businesses-arent-sharing-more-data