Data Strategy and Roadmap: setting the direction for New Zealand's data
The availability of new data and sophisticated technologies has enabled exciting uses of data that continue to transform how we see, act, and engage with the world.
The Data Strategy and Roadmap (Roadmap) [PDF 2.72 MB] is now available. Commissioned by the Government Chief Data Steward (GCDS), the Roadmap provides a shared direction and plan for New Zealand’s data system (the people and organisations that collect and use data).
Initially the Roadmap examines the government’s role in enabling a well-functioning data system. This will broaden over time to include non-government organisations (NGOs), local government, and the private sector.
A supporting A3 diagram [PDF 6.35MB] provides an overview of the Roadmap, including the focus areas (see below), goals, and how the future state/outcomes will affect New Zealanders, organisations and government.
Responsive and flexible foundation
As a living document, the Roadmap will lay a responsive and flexible foundation for organisations to work together and align their data initiatives, ultimately leading to more effective and efficient use of data, reducing costs and supporting innovation. It will be reviewed and updated regularly.
Focus areas
Four focus areas – endorsed as priorities for the digital and data systems – are expected to help achieve a responsive, sustainable, and joined up data system:
- investing in making the right data available at the right time
- growing data capability and supporting good practice
- building partnerships within and outside government
- implementing open and transparent practices.
Ongoing and planned data initiatives are being mapped to establish practical ways the Roadmap can help create value for New Zealand.
Roadmap development
Key stakeholders – from central and local government, business, community organisations, and NGOs – participated in multiple workshops and interviews, providing independent technical guidance and expertise.
Throughout development they rigorously tested the Roadmap's direction to ensure it was future-focused, robust, practical, and able to be adapted to different data sources and uses.
Next steps
Activity over the next 3-5 years will focus on key areas for improving the collection, management and use of data.
Data initiatives from across government will be identified to understand what’s being worked on to:
- establish a shared direction
- align goals and efforts
- identify future investment opportunities and areas for collaboration.
The next version of the Data Strategy and Roadmap is expected to be available in December 2018.
More information
Read the plain English fact sheet [PDF 80KB].
Contact us
If you’d like more information, have a question, or want to provide feedback, please email datalead@stats.govt.nz.