Open data – a common goal but different ways to achieve it

Abstract

Everyone wants open data, but the road towards it can be both difficult and long. Implementation of data portals and ICT solutions for support of the data infrastructure can be initiated from the central government through legislation, regulation and public procurement. This is what you would call a typical top-down implementation. Implementation could also happen with the help of local enthusiasts and the proper organizational structure. This would be referred to as a bottom-up approach to the implementation. In Denmark you will find examples of both approaches and they will be presented in this article through two specific cases from the catalogue of digital solutions for closer public sector collaboration.