This module introduces participants to the concept of civic data ecosystems.
Guiding Questions
What is a civic data ecosystem?
What value is there in mapping out a local civic data ecosystem?
How can we use ecosystem mapping as a means for understanding the people/organizations connected to civic data and the infrastructure that supports this work?
Vignette
As part of their mission to help people find, use, and apply open civic data, a public library is interested in identifying ways that the library can engage with civic data in their communities. The librarian knows that it is important to first identify and establish relationships with other organizations and people engaged with civic data in the local context. They work with colleagues in other organizations to develop a civic data ecosystem map and explore this map to identify points of entry for library participation.
Instructional Materials
Video
Module 2.2 Captioned Video:Introduction to Civic Data Ecosystems
Module 2.2 Slides: Introduction to Civic Data Ecosystems
PDFFile
Activities
We have two activities for this module. They have been moved to their own sub-page, available here: Module 2.2 Activities
Additional Resources
This guide is the product of a Civic Tech and Data Collaborative (CTDC) initiative in which stakeholders in seven communities used ecosystem mapping to identify their local existing data networks and roles. The resource "provides guidance and examples from these cities on the value of mapping, key questions when getting started, different methods to collect the data, and how to use and analyze ecosystem maps to strengthen community relationships."
Citation: Arena, O. & Li, C. (June 2018). Guide to Civic Tech & Data Ecosystem Mapping. June 2018. https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/publication/98649/guide_to_civic_tech_and_data_ecosystem_mapping.pdf
With this guide, the Open Data Institute (ODI) articulates the value of both the ecosystem mapping process and the resulting map for understanding how data is used and shared within a community, to clarify roles within the ecosystem, to identify gaps and opportunities to improve the ecosystem. The guide offers a methodology for facilitating an ecosystem mapping effort, highlighting questions to consider. The guide also offers example ecosystem maps.
Citation: Open Data Institute (updated April 2022). Mapping Data Ecosystems: Tools for Documenting and Mapping Data Ecosystems. http://theodi.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2022_ODI_Mapping-data-ecosystems-2022-update.pdf
