Usability of the G7 Open Government Data Portals and Lessons Learned

Abstract

Recent advances in technology have made truly open and accessible government significantly more realisable. One of the ways in which governments are using this technology is in the implementation of online portals that allow open (i.e., public and unrestricted) access to data and use of data. Such portals can be used by citizens and professionals to facilitate improved decision-making across a wide range of areas, from car-parking to promoting entrepreneurialism. However, the existence of portals per se is not enough. To maximise their potential, users must also feel that they are both accessible and usable. To gain insights into the current state of usability of OGD portals for professionals working in data-related areas, a comparative study of the portals of the G7 group was carried out, using a mixed methodology. This is the first specific comparison of these portals for such users, as well as the first study to add a user-centred qualitative dimension to the research. The study’s findings showed that the G7 countries are not maximising the potential of their portals or collaborating effectively. Addressing these issues, and building better cross-national consistency, would help to improve the value delivered by investment in OGD portals. The study also further supported an existing user-centred, heuristic evaluation framework for application to a more specific user group, as well as more generally.

Path analytic investigation of the intention to adopt open government data in Qatar (TAM revisited)

“…The first factor “Perceived Ease of Use of OGD Portals” accounts for 30.819 % of total variance and is defined by five statements (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.872). The words and phrases in these five questionnaire statements were based on studies by Mutambik et al (2021) and Park and Kim (2022): {Q:USE9} The OGD portal provides a user-friendly environment. {Q:USE8} My experience with using OGD was better than I expected. {Q:USE10} OGD portal provides strong dataset search capabilities using different criteria. {Q:USE12} Overall, I am satisfied with the services offered by the OGD portal. {Q:USE11} The OGD portal enabled me to download datasets easily and effectively. …”

“…OGD initiatives are “any attempt, by a government or otherwise, to open data that is produced by a governmental entity” (Attard et al , 2015, p. 399). As explained by Mutambik (2021, p. 13), “Data portals are generally the main tool used in open data initiatives”. According to Luna-Reyes (2014, p. 4), “[G]overnment portals can be used to publish basic information, or electronic systems can be used to create and follow-up on specific requests”.…”

Challenges and Opportunities in Implementing Open Government Data Initiatives in East Africa

“…This involves establishing online portals and platforms where government datasets are published in open and machine-readable formats, making them easily accessible to citizens, researchers, journalists, and other stakeholders. By promoting data openness and accessibility, these initiatives empower individuals and organizations to analyze, visualize, and utilize government data for various purposes, including research, advocacy, and policy-making [11,12]. c. Citizen Engagement and Participation OGD initiatives in East Africa seek to foster greater citizen engagement and participation in governance processes.…”

Transitioning to Smart Cities in Gulf Cooperation Council Countries: The Role of Leadership and Organisational Culture

“…The statistics support this expectation. The OECD's Open Government Data Project reports on the progress of over 30 countries in the use of OGD [31][32][33], and many other countries have integrated OGD strategies into their political, social and economic agendas [34].…”