THE lack of a comprehensive data analytics and visualization portal in the Philippines showing real-time macro-socioeconomics data has been highlighted in my current research, Data for Development (D4D): A Study Towards Building a Comprehensive Data Analytics and Visualization Portal for National and Local Development in the Philippines.
I am thankful for the opportunity to be one of the senior research fellows under the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) Graduate School of Public and Development Management 2021 Research Program under the theme: Reimagining Sustainable Development Futures Today.
We approach this study in various ways as we take a look at experiences and models of other countries as well as existing platforms that are available and are already operational in the Philippines and abroad. The main methodology also involved a survey taken of several layers. The survey covered key informants involved in the main CEO and managerial level in their fields covering various fields.
The types of data mostly used came primarily from-in-house data (or self-generated data), data from specific portals or sources, data from government offices and portals, general data from the internet, and data from commissioned research.
The least difficult part for most respondents is the processing of data, while the most difficult in the Philippines is collecting and gathering data since these are scattered in different platforms. There are government data portals that have downloadable data and are user-friendly but are not updated in a timely manner, such that their data are three, or even five years old. Unlike in private companies, which leverage digital technologies, data is always fresh and new.
All respondents said it was extremely ideal to use data for decision-making, because we need data to back up facts in all sectors, especially the government, academe and industry. Data must come from a respectable and credible portal or source that leads to sound decisions, instead of tailored-fit data that may lead to biased decisions.
When work or performance is based on delivery of services to customers or clients, data from customers, or surveys are very important to the organization. Before coming up with a decision or strategy, it is best to always look at the data or insights from our stakeholders to ensure accuracy and efficiency. An informed business decision can guide product development, iteration and service design or delivery. Continuous improvement ideally should be based on facts and insights from actual business performance. Future programs are based on existing data because data-driven governance is more beneficial and advantageous.
Knowing where we are based on key indicators and baselines would help identify the real issues and concerns of the society and for the government or institutions to develop plans and strategies to address the same concurrently, ensuring the funds are used in the right programs. Large institutions promote evidence-based decision-making and evidence-based practice, and so data is crucial for all our products or services
Seventy-seven percent of the respondents say data is an asset to the public sector. Better collection, processing, storage, and distribution of data are essential in generating useful information needed to run a data-driven economy and governance. Public services can best be managed if there is proper understanding of the needs of the public, and therefore, data is critical for this success. The kind of public service that results from data analysis that gives the highest impact to the community. Services afforded to the public should be reflective of actual needs and challenges faced. This perspective can only be adopted using data. Data is an asset since it is the primary source for solving relevant problems that we seek to solve; and should therefore be an integral part of the operations of government and in policymaking. Without the baseline data and trends, we cannot measure our performance.
With the use of data, we can accurately measure, observe, predict and formulate best solutions and instill transparency.
We still need to complete the study by conducting top-level interviews and creating some mock–ups. For those interested to participate or support the study, they can look for my site: jocellebatapasigue.com.