Data Reuse for Public Sector Impact and Innovation
Mexico has developed an ambitious national open data policy to create value from the
use and re-use of government data by the public, private and social sectors. Open
government data (OGD) has the potential to spur the digital economy, as well as contribute
to more efficient public service delivery and greater public engagement. Mexico has
demonstrated its commitment to OGD through its close involvement in international
open data initiatives. However, it faces challenges in effectively implementing OGD
domestically in a way that makes a greater impact on the economy and society. This
would require, notably, institutionalizing open data, understanding the demand for
government data, reaching out to potential users and working more closely with local
governments. To fully realise the potential of open data, it is crucial that public
bodies understand the benefits, are fully behind the project and actively participate
in its implementation. This report provides an analysis of Mexico’s policies as well
as recommendations for achieving its national objectives and making the most of OGD.
Open government data – machine-readable information made available to all by governments – can empower citizens and improve government accountability, integrity and public services. It can boost public trust by enabling citizens to audit policy results.
Open Government Data in Mexico
Mexico has become a front-runner in a short time in making government data publicly accessible
However, open data has yet to make a substantial impact on Mexico’s economy & society.
There is more work to be done before the public sector can become an enabler of the digital economy and of better public governance.
Recommendations
Mexico should actively support public officials, social entrepreneurs, businesses, journalists & civil society in using open data.
Provide the skills training in how to create value from open government data.
Build and engage user communities around open data is an essential first step since active collaboration between producers and consumers of data is key to encourage its reuse.
Mexico ranks 10th on the OECD’s OURData Index and Mexico's National Open Data Policy has spawned a series of ambitious federal initiatives including a fully functional central open government data portal datos.gob.mx.
Data for the index is taken from member countries and focuses on government efforts to ensure public sector data availability and accessibility and to spur a greater re-use. The Index is based on OECD methodology and the guidelines of the G8 OGD Charter.