Making Open and Machine Readable the New Default for Government Information
May 14, 2013
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: May 9, 2013
Published on: May 14, 2013
May 14, 2013
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: May 9, 2013
Published on: May 14, 2013
Summary
Sets a new rule that government information must be open and easy for computers to read, aiming to create jobs and improve services for the public.
What problem does this solve?
Valuable government data was often hard for the public to find and use, limiting its potential for creating new businesses and tools. This order makes open and machine-readable data the new standard, making it easier for innovators to access and use this information.
What does this order do?
Establishes a new default for government information
Makes all new and updated government information open and machine-readable by default, meaning it should be easy to find, access, and use by the public.
Creates a government-wide Open Data Policy
Directs the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to create and issue an Open Data Policy that all federal agencies must follow.
Requires agencies to protect sensitive information
Mandates that agencies must review all data to protect individual privacy, confidentiality, and national security before making it public.
Sets up a system to track progress
Creates a Cross-Agency Priority (CAP) Goal to monitor how well agencies are implementing the new Open Data Policy, with required progress reports.
Provides tools and resources for agencies
Directs the Chief Information Officer and Chief Technology Officer to create an online collection of tools and best practices to help agencies adopt the new policy.
Who does this affect?
- Federal government agencies
- Entrepreneurs and innovators
- The general public
What is the real world impact?
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Spurs economic growth and innovation
Provides entrepreneurs and businesses with free access to government data, like weather and GPS information, which they can use to create new products, services, and jobs.
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Increases government transparency
Makes government operations more open to the public by making information easier to find, access, and understand. This helps hold the government accountable.
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Balances openness with security
While promoting data sharing, the order requires agencies to carefully review information to protect individual privacy, confidential details, and national security before releasing it to the public.
When does this start?
This order became effective on May 9, 2013, and sets several deadlines for federal agencies to take action.
Establishment of a progress tracking goal
Within 90 days of the order (by August 7, 2013), the Chief Performance Officer must establish a goal to track the implementation of the Open Data Policy.
First agency progress reports due
Within 180 days of the order (by November 5, 2013), agencies must submit their first report on their progress in meeting the new data goals.
Creation of tools and best practices
Within 30 days after the Open Data Policy is issued, the CIO and CTO must publish an online repository of tools to help agencies comply.
Integration into government contracts and grants
Within 90 days after the Open Data Policy is issued, officials must begin taking steps to include open data requirements in federal contracts and grants.