Data use as a feature of policy making in cities

This chapter begins with a definition and taxonomy of data, then analyses the implications of data use at each stage of the government data value cycle. It demonstrates how local governments can leverage data to generate public value and improve residents’ well‑being, from anticipating future trends and risks, to improving public services and supporting evidence-based governance through evaluation and impact assessment. The chapter also presents a tailored OECD data governance framework for the local public sector. The framework aims to help local governments target data governance elements at the strategic and tactical layers to generate public value and transition to a data-driven organisation. The chapter concludes with patterns and findings on data use and well‑being outcomes in cities.