2019 in Review: A Year of Change and Growth at the Data Foundation

The landscape for government data policy at the end of 2019 looks very different than when the year began. Across Washington, DC, federal agencies are working to implement new legislation called the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act (Evidence Act) that overhauls the country’s data infrastructure. The Data Foundation’s contributions this year to advancing the dialogue and opportunity for future improvements include the following:

Exploring Responsible Applications of Emerging Technologies. The Data Foundation published the widely acclaimed Blockchain in Government report, highlighting for federal managers and staff opportunities and considerations of when blockchain technology might be appropriate, or not, in government data operations.

Developing Strategies for Funding Evidence and Data Initiatives. While broad enthusiasm exists for advancing data policy in the country, sometimes resources available to agencies fall short. The Data Foundation’s report on Funding the Evidence Act identifies a range of new options and strategies for providing funding flexibilities to make data an asset with appropriate funding and staff in agencies. 

Identifying Mechanisms for Success of Chief Data Officers. The new Chief Data Officer positions in government created by the Evidence Act offer promise for establishing clear leaders in agencies to prioritize data quality and access, but only if organized and empowered. The Data Foundation’s report on The Future of Open Data identifies opportunities for success as these new leaders become more established. 

Educating About Business Identifier Gaps. The United States currently lacks a comprehensive legal entity identification (LEI) system that could benefit researchers, regulators, and entrepreneurs. The Data Foundation partnered with the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation to host a Washington Forum educating the Washington, DC, policy community about the potential value and benefits of applying the LEI.

Expanding the Data Foundation’s Capacity. In early 2020 the Data Foundation will announce new research priorities, new board members, and new expertise associated with the expanding research and education needs related to government data policy. In 2019, this expanding effort included hiring the first full-time research director for the organization as well as a cohort of four research fellows supporting the organization’s mission.

Building on the great successes of the Data Foundation’s work in 2019, the next year is certain to bring even more opportunity, growth, and change as the organization launches new initiatives and projects to advance responsible policies for better using government data.