Embedding open data practice : developing indicators on the institutionalisation of open data practice in two African governments

Abstract

The research examines aspects of change processes within African institutions, including multiple levels of government. Assigning open data licenses to datasets is the focus of the study, as a unified legal framework around open datasets is viewed as particularly important. Three indicator categories were developed in order to measure change, each of which relates to the uptake of, and possible tension inherent in open data practice at both the middle and under-structure levels of governmental organization. Project findings suggest there are clearly tensions to resolve in terms of reconciling values and norms across organizational levels that make up governments.