Open Data: Berlin's ecosystem is diverse, data files growing

By now many authorities voluntarily provide public access to their data - these data are already being used by more than 20 operators for applications, products or services. The data can also be used for commercial or non-commercial purposes, provided that reference is made to such use, as they are usually subject to Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Germany License. The information being published by the administration is diverse - for example, there is information available on recycling bins for waste glass, youth organisations or city festivals. 

In order to facilitate data publication the Senate has published a 28-page <link http://daten.berlin.de/sites/default/files/Datenbereitsteller.pdf>step-by-step guide</link>. The guide helps administrative staff to better assess which data should be made available to the public. After all, when making such a decision they are obliged to take into consideration copyrights and personal rights as well as trade secrets.

Private individuals, too, should consider sharing data
A survey among potential data providers and users carried out in autumn 2015 forms the basis for the <link https://www.technologiestiftung-berlin.de/fileadmin/daten/media/publikationen/140201_Studie_Digitales_Gold_Open_Data.pdf>Open Data-Study</link> which has been published only recently. The authors of the study also recommend that apart from the administration private individuals, too, should consider sharing their data with others. Typical data that could be useful to civil society or young startups include information on power consumption, pollutant levels, property lines or data on urban traffic events.

The procedure, called ‘Open Government Data’, has tremendous potential. According to Nicolas Zimmer, CEO of Technologiestiftung Berlin, the economic benefits of an open data policy could amount to more than 30 million euros per year. His conclusion: "Openness pays off."