The article argues that while governments historically controlled records, open data enhances societal value by allowing external insights to emerge. This power dynamics shift underscores why transparency is crucial for democratic accountability and collective benefit. However, the digital age introduced format as a new tool for control, complicating access to electronically stored information. This shift highlights the urgent need to address technical barriers that hinder the public’s ability to utilize government-funded data effectively. This context is vital for open data advocates, as it reveals that technical standards, not just policy, determine accessibility. Ensuring open formats is essential to prevent data from becoming an exclusive asset, thereby preserving the transformative potential of public information for all citizens.
Source: linux-magazine.comPublished on 2023-05-23