The growth and impact over the years of the Open Data Inventory (ODIN) would not be possible without the dedicated researchers behind it. ODIN is the world’s only independent measure of the openness of official statistics. Since its first round of assessments in 2016, ODIN has become a valued tool used by national statistical offices (NSOs) to measure the progress of their efforts to open data. Of note in 2022, ODIN’s latest edition will be expanded to include a special focus on gender data.
Ahead of each ODIN assessment period, researchers go through in-depth training to learn its rigorous and unique methodology and its broad aims and objectives. They then spend three months carefully assessing NSO websites in 195 countries, methodically recording the results for 65 indicators across 22 categories. In the process, there are extensive questions to answer on data coverage (Are the data published and disaggregated?) and openness (Are the data published with metadata and how much?). The initial results are then sent for quality assurance to selected expert reviewers before becoming the rich analysis seen in the published report.
In an effort to spotlight the work of assessors and reviewers, ODW has launched this new series, “Meet the Researchers Behind the Open Data Inventory” where each month we briefly interview one of the researchers involved in the work behind the widespread impact that the Open Data Inventory has had in making data more available and open worldwide.
Where are you located?
Buenos Aires, Argentina
What do you do outside of ODIN?
I am a graduate student specializing in Latin American Studies, Environmental Conflicts and Social Anthropology. I enjoy cooking, doing yoga, cycling, traveling and going on long walks with my dog.
Why do you feel projects like ODIN that aim to increase the availability of open data are important?
Knowledge is power, and data is one form of knowledge. Ensuring that data are open and widely available represents the democratization of said power.
What skills has your ODIN experience provided you with or helped to strengthen?
Working with the Open Data Inventory has honed my investigative skills with quantitative data and further enforced my international perspective.
Which ODIN indicator is most important to you and why?
Personally, I believe the most important indicators are those that deal with the extractive industries, energy production and the environment. In my dissertation I study the effects of extractive industries on societies and the environment. Having accurate available data about these industries allows the citizenry to influence policy makers in moving towards a more sustainable and democratic energy transition.
Where are you located?
Glenn Dale, MD
What do you do outside of ODIN?
I work in communications and transportation. I’m an avid Formula 1 and Harry Potter fan. I’m usually listening to podcasts, getting poked by my rabbit hiding under the desk while I complete my reviews.
Why do you feel projects like ODIN that aim to increase the availability of open data are important?
I believe any data on international development indicators is especially important, as we continue to face civil unrest, famine, a climate crisis, among other emergencies. Our ability to easily access country data contributes to independent studies and projects working toward a sustainable future. I enjoy the regional comparisons as well, which helps keep our neighbors accountable on details such as the number of girls in school compared to boys, and view similar margins in violence, for example. This is vital as we continue to push for equal access and respect for women and girls.
What skills has your ODIN experience provided you with or helped to strengthen?
ODIN has helped me improve my open-source research. After being on a constant quest for metadata and comparing figures in multiple languages, I’ve improved my quality of work in my own fields. I find that I am faster, cleaner, and more consistent in the way I present information. Plus, I (kind of) know what API is now.
Which ODIN indicator is most important to you and why?
Gender statistics have always been a focal point of mine, not just for low-income countries but the OECD countries as well, as more women enter politics, for example. I appreciate ODIN for incorporating Food Security and Nutrition, which helps highlight countries in conflict, alongside those dealing with climate change effect that are also food insecure.
Where are you located?
London, England
What do you do outside of ODIN?
I am a third-year Bachelor of Arts and Sciences student at University College London.
Why do you feel projects like ODIN that aim to increase the availability of open data are important?
I believe that in order to improve living standards, economic performance, conservation, etc., you must first measure these indicators. Making the data ‘open’ takes this to the next step by reinforcing transparency, accuracy and dissemination of the available data.
What skills has your ODIN experience provided you with or helped to strengthen?
ODIN has improved my organizational skills and quick decision-making.
Which ODIN indicator is most important to you and why?
Indicator (21.1) Greenhouse gas emissions because without open data on this indicator the transition towards net zero emissions cannot even begin.
Where are you located?
New York City
What do you do outside of ODIN?
I like to hike and be in nature. I love playing and watching soccer and am an avid Liverpool fan.
Why do you feel projects like ODIN that aim to increase the availability of open data are important?
I believe that they can have a major impact in providing accurate information that can be of use when planning development interventions to support governments and people reach their full potential.
What skills has your ODIN experience provided you with or helped to strengthen?
It has helped me become more organized, observant, and curious.
Which ODIN indicator is most important to you and why?
As a former teacher, I am interested in education data, specifically the expenditures as there are direct correlations between money spent on education and its quality.
Bookmark this page for more profiles in the coming months!
