Uses and Impact of ‘Open Data’ Technology for Developing Social Sector in Pakistan

Abstract

The use of open data has several benefits for the governments, organizations and individuals.  The ‘Open Data’ is a collection of easily accessible data that is to be available for general use without any restrictions. Therefore many developed countries are planning to start getting involved with ‘Open Data’. Moreover, the focus is shifting from opening as much data as possible towards realizing the benefits of ‘Open Data’. With technological advancements several countries are taking interest in making their government data open to the general public. Moreover several benefits can be reaped through such programs for which the governments are enthusiastic about taking part in the ‘Open Data’ programs. The benefits associated with ‘Open Data’ include ensuring better transparency and accountability of the government, participation and self-empowerment to the citizens, economic growth, and stimulation of innovation through re-use of data. The research explained how the fact that when Government of Pakistan had opened their data both internally and externally improved their capacity to innovate. Lastly, this article described how some of the tasks mentioned previously could be outsourced by the government of Pakistan, bringing a new actor in the ecosystem. There are plenty of data sources that might provide a different angle on the economy and large public datasets from cities, countries and government agencies. The collection of data has been done using qualitative and quantitative methods. It is most likely that the using the concept of “access to Open Data may help the government of Pakistan to develop the social sector in Pakistan.