Author: Ramon Gian A. Bron (Bicol University)

In a decision-driven world, data plays an irreplaceable role not only for individuals but also for businesses and governments. Data allows decision-makers to smartly plan and make informed decisions from the insights gathered from the analysis of data. These decisions in turn impact how individuals, businesses, and governments deliver and enhance services as well as formulate policies that cascade down to the lowest level of operation.

Local Government Units (LGUs) may take advantage of data to create a paradigm shift in the way LGUs operate. LGUs should gather and consolidate data and process them so that insights can be generated. There are many available tools and systems that can be utilized by LGUs to process gathered data. These tools and systems range from simple spreadsheets to sophisticated applications. Based on the need of the LGU, different use-cases may then be identified.

It is a matter of expansion and exploration of data to enhance, if not change, the way we understand things around us. If LGUs can transition to ICT-driven systems that allow for the management of data, most, if not all, decisions will be data-driven. LGUs can even look ahead by analyzing historical data. From the insights determined through data analytics, the conclusions can be made ready for general human consumption through reports and visualizations.

All of these may become possible through the introduction of varying ICT solutions in the LGU. From simple to complex implementations, different ICT needs will be needed to cover the different niches that these will create. Therefore, staffing will be crucial to the success of any implementation. Different units within the LGU can then be identified to handle different problems, issues, and concerns. Ultimately, all of these will only be truly possible if people embrace the importance of data and analytics.

This article is the author’s reflection on the insight gained from the recently concluded OCDex 2022 Public Data Analytics Fellowship Trainings.

For more information about the article, please reach out to the author: rgabron@bicol-u.edu.ph or Layertech labs support at learning@layertechlab.com