In a new initiative, teams from both Stats NZ and DIA met at the Service Innovation Lab to explore data discovery and use across New Zealand. This two-day workshop aimed to look at how we streamline open data release processes and enhance accessibility for all users.

Day One: Mapping the open data landscape

The first day focused on understanding user needs and identifying key themes in open data consumption and supply. Participants engaged in a comprehensive analysis of recent agency user research, mapping out customer types and exploring commonalities across different perspectives.

“With an ‘all cards on the table’ approach, by the end of the day the workshop team had a fuller understanding of each other’s space - our user groups, the challenges faced - and a growing sense of the opportunities that a more ‘joined-up’ approach to solving common problems could offer.”

Day Two: Ideation and innovation

The second day was dedicated to problem-solving and ideation. The team brainstormed strategies to improve data customer experience, including:

• Establishing robust feedback loops with user communities

• Developing a common glossary of terms

• Exploring potential governance structures for effective data services

• Collaborative talent pooling across agencies

A key outcome was the mapping of user types to existing services, revealing gaps and overlaps in the current system.

Looking ahead: A unified approach

The workshop lays the foundation for a more coordinated and efficient approach to open data management in New Zealand. As the team moves forward, they will focus on:

1. Reviewing findings with respective agencies

2. Planning next steps to maximise benefits for users and the system

3. Engaging with the data community for validation and feedback

A new phase of data collaboration

This initiative represents a significant step towards smarter government operations and improved citizen services. As stated in the workshop summary:

“DIA and Stats NZ are key players in collaborating to bring tangible benefits to users from across New Zealand and beyond - reflecting their role as functional leads in both the digital and data spheres.”

This collaborative effort marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards a more open, accessible, and user-friendly data ecosystem in New Zealand.

For more information on New Zealand’s open data initiatives, visit:

• Open Data NZ: https://www.digital.govt.nz/standards-and-guidance/data/open-data/

• Data.govt.nz: https://data.govt.nz