In this first podcast we introduce the vision for the data collective: what it is and why it exists.
To find out more watch the video, listen to the audio or check out the transcript 😄
Recorded 20th Sep 2024.
Summary
Rufus and David discussed the vision and goals of the Data Collective, a collaborative effort to build data infrastructure, curate open data, and provide it sustainably. They also explored the challenges faced in sustaining open data projects and the potential for a more community-driven approach. Lastly, they discussed the development of the Data Collective, including the creation of a knowledge base, a newsletter, and plans for events and hackathons to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Data Collective Vision and Collaboration Discussion (00:00 - 04:18)
In the inaugural fireside chat of the Data Collective series, Rufus and David discussed the vision and goals of the Data Collective. Rufus explained that the Data Collective is still in its embryonic stage, reflecting a vision from over a decade ago of collaborating to build data infrastructure, curate open data, and provide it sustainably. The name ‘Data Collective’ was inspired by art collectives, where artists come together to support each other in their work. Rufus expressed the desire to create a structure that would encourage collaboration and make working with data financially sustainable and enjoyable. David asked about the main issues faced and why the Data Collective was being pursued now. Rufus responded that the general ‘why’ was to build on his personal experience and the projects he’s been involved in, and to create a structure that would encourage collaboration and make working with data financially sustainable and enjoyable.
Evolution of Open Data Projects and Challenges (04:18 - 11:15)
Rufus discussed the evolution of open data projects and the challenges faced in sustaining them. He expressed a desire for a more collaborative and decentralized data infrastructure, akin to Wikipedia and OpenStreetMap, and acknowledged the progress made in open data portals worldwide. Rufus also shared his experiences with the Open Spending project, which he believes could have been more successful if it had been more community-driven. He suggested that a bottom-up approach, possibly involving cooperative models, could be a way to make open data projects more sustainable. David added that advancements in data infrastructure and tooling have made it easier and cheaper to work with data sets. Both agreed on the potential for renewed interest in the data commons and the need for collective action to make it a reality.
Developing Data Collective and Knowledge Sharing (11:15 - 14:15)
Rufus and David discussed the development of the Data Collective, a knowledge base for data-related topics. They are building a handbook of patterns and principles, running a newsletter, and planning to host fireside chats with other experts. They also aim to publish data sets and organize events or hackathons. The goal is to create a community where people can share knowledge and collaborate on data projects. Life encouraged others to join their monthly events and contribute to the collective’s growth.
