MPA Major Research Papers

Date of Award

7-1-2011

Degree Type

Major Research Paper

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration

Program

Political Science

Supervisor

Sancton, Andrew

Geographical Areas

Vancouver, British Columbia, Edmonton, Alberta, Ottawa, London, Nanaimo, British Columbia, Medicine Hat, Alberta

Abstract

This paper examines the rationale for why local governments develop open data programs. Interviews were conducted with officials from six Canadian municipalities involved in open data projects – Vancouver, Edmonton, Ottawa, London, Nanaimo, and Medicine Hat – and two community members from Vancouver and London who have played an important role in these developments. The findings reveal that both municipal officials and citizens have a strong desire for open data but the movement has progressed slowly and there are several areas in which it can improve.

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