Data sharing is important to how Scottish local governments respond to the COVID-19 crisis, and to play an important role in recovery, according to a new study from the University of Glasgow.

this Reflect feedback from other cities This analysis provides insights for local governments inside and outside Scotland.

Is COVID-19 Scotland Local Government: Data Needs, Features, and Uses The report highlights the key advances stimulated by the pandemic and recommendations on how to maintain these benefits, address challenges and further accelerate data innovation.

Dr. Justine Gangneux, Research Associate at the University of Glasgow Urban Big Data Center, commented: Service to the community. Therefore, data was central to local governments’ response to local pandemics. “

Data sharing

Researchers at the Urban Big Data Center analyzed data usage from fall 2020 to spring 2021. A total of 31 of Scotland’s 32 municipalities are NHS Scotland, the Scottish Police, the Scottish Government, and several third-sector (voluntary) organizations.

The survey found that 83% of respondents said internal data sharing increased during COVID-19, 79% indicated use of new data sources, and 74% confirmed increased data collection. It was.

There has also been a significant increase in data sharing across the public sector, especially between local governments and the NHS. This includes, for example, sharing of shielded data to enable local governments and volunteer groups to provide assistance such as food parcels.

New data

Respondents rated public sector data as much more important for managing pandemics than private sector data and data from social media and the Internet of Things (IoT). “Very important” is 11% and “Very important” is 11%.

“Surprisingly, we find that so-called” smart “or” new “data, such as social media and Internet of Things data, is in great demand compared to traditional managed data generated by public sector organizations. did not.But the participants [see it playing] It’s a more important role in the future, “said Professor Simon Joss, a professor of urban future at the University of Glasgow.

The use of new data by local governments is still in its infancy, but the report states that central and local governments need to develop their data skills and provide examples of successful applications in order to take advantage of further opportunities. States. City Glasgow etc.For example, used CCTV to create anonymized open data counts for pedestrians and vehicles.

Task

Research has shown that the pandemic has also amplified many of the existing data challenges facing local governments.

Gangneux said:

Data integration and ensuring data quality and standards, including interoperability, were rated as key challenges.

To address these issues and ensure long-term outcomes during the pandemic, the report makes 15 recommendations, including: Adoption of common digital and data standards. Integrate data sharing protocols across the public sector. And support for legacy systems.

This study Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) It was carried out in cooperation with. Scottish Local Government Digital Office..

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