#MyDataStory

#MyDataStory: How Government Data Powers American Success

The Data Foundation's #MyDataStory initiative collects real stories from Americans about how federal data helps them solve problems, make decisions, and serve their communities. Through these firsthand accounts, we're documenting how public data strengthens families, businesses, and communities across the country.

Every Day, Americans Use Government Data

Government data isn't just for officials in Washington DC or state capitals. Across the country, people rely on this public resource to make important decisions:

• Parents comparing public school performance data to choose the best education for their children

• First-time homebuyers researching neighborhood safety and housing market trends

• Small business owners using Census data to find the right location for their new store

• Family farmers using soil and weather data to maximize crop yields

• Job seekers using labor statistics to find the best wages in their field

Why Share Your Story?

Your experience helps:

• Show policymakers how their data investments create real value for Americans

• Identify which government data sources are most useful for different communities

• Demonstrate how public data supports innovation and economic growth

• Guide improvements in data quality and accessibility for future users

Share Your Experience

Tell us about the government data that matters most to you. Here are two examples:

"I use NOAA weather data every day to keep my construction crew safe. Without reliable forecasts, we'd have to cancel jobs more often and could put workers at risk. This free government data helps me protect my team and run my business efficiently."

"I use federal contracting data to help veteran-owned businesses in our community compete for government work. By understanding which agencies buy what products and typical contract values, we've helped dozens of local veterans win their first federal contracts. This public data opens doors for small businesses that wouldn't know where to start otherwise."

Record your 30-second story explaining:

• The most valuable government data you use

• How this data helps you achieve your goals

• What would happen if you couldn't access it

Join the Conversation!

Your story matters. Help us show how government data strengthens American communities and enables better decisions for all.

• Submit a video recording or a written form of your story at the links below

• Use #MyDataStory on social media

• Partner with us to amplify these stories

• Follow the Data Foundation for updates

RECORD YOUR #MYDATASTORY

WRITE YOUR #MYDATASTORY

Frequently Asked Questions

What questions will I be asked to answer?

The video platform will guide you through three simple prompts:

--Introduce yourself and share an example of specific public data you rely on the most for your life or work? How do you use it?
--Can you share a real example of a time this public data helped you make a decision or solve a problem? What were you trying to achieve?
--If this data wasn't available tomorrow, what would be the concrete impact on you, your organization, or your community?

Do I need to be a data expert to share my story? No! If you use weather forecasts, look up school ratings, check traffic maps, or research house prices - you're already using government data. We want to hear from everyone who uses this information in their daily life or work.

What if I'm not sure if the data I use comes from the government? That's okay! Share what you know about the data you use. Whether it's weather forecasts, school ratings, or economic statistics, many common data sources have government origins. Tell us how you use the data and what you know about where it comes from.

What if I don't know which agency provides the data? Don't worry about naming specific agencies. Focus on describing what the data shows (like weather, jobs, or housing) and how you use it. Your story about how the data helps you is what matters most.

What makes a good story? The best stories are specific, authentic, and show real impact. Talk about exactly how you use the data and what would happen if you couldn't access it anymore.

How long should my video be? Each response should be about 30 seconds. The platform will guide you through recording your answers to each prompt.

Will my story be public? Yes, stories submitted will be shared on our website and social media to help others understand the value of government data. You'll have a chance to review your recording before submitting.

Can I share multiple stories? Yes! If you use different types of government data, feel free to record separate stories about each one.

What if my story involves sensitive information? Focus on what you can share publicly. Don't include confidential business information or personal details. Talk about the type of data you use and its general impact.

Can organizations submit stories? Yes! We encourage businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to share how they use government data to serve others.

Do I need special equipment to record? No, you can record right from your computer or phone using our simple video platform.

Why did the Data Foundation choose Vocal Video for #MyDataStory? The Vocal Video platform offers a simple, accessible way for data users -- you -- to share stories and experiences using data.