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Improving Governance Through Data Science

Governments may make the extensive implementation of data science. With the implementation of predictive and perspective analytics, AI, and ML, it can obtain valuable information from huge data sources to improve government decision-making or in gaining the understanding required to make data-driven decisions. With technology becoming ingrained in day-to-day lives, data arrives in various forms, such as real-time streaming from IoT devices, social networks, and numerous other data sources. This has led to the growing importance of data science in governance. Consider the following example: One of the main ways in which data science can be applied to governance is through the use of predictive analytics. By analyzing data from various sources, such as demographic information, economic indicators, and public opinion polls, governments can make predictive analysis about future trends and patterns of behavior. This information can then be used to make proactive decisions, such as investing in infrastructure or launching educational programs, which are designed to manage and mitigate any negative feedback.

Why is Data Science needed in Governance?

Data science is becoming a watchword for efficient governance. In most cases, private corporations’ actions are recorded in databases and hiding that digital information from authorities will erode any society’s safety nets. Governments must take action to assess problematic AI software and look for biases in algorithms that influence citizens receiving government services and those barred from them. It will be vital to have an efficient team of strong public data scientists to audit the usage of algorithms in public and private industries as they grow more prevalent.

It will be imperative to have sufficient data science literacy for government officials, who don’t have any prior coding knowledge, to effectively evaluate the abundance of empirical information. For example, in the USA, despite recent challenges in the budget’s proposed cuts to infrastructure for evidence-building, the government has successfully passed ‘The Foundations of Evidence-Based Policymaking Act’, which proposes to increase the reach and influence of data science across government programs. With the formation of 125 public statistical companies, the USA proves the importance of data science-based policymaking will continue to play a significant role in the future.

Additionally, adopting the attitude of a data scientist is incredibly beneficial for government officials because it compels them to face uncertainty, contemplate alternative scenarios, analyze intricate patterns, and ask what data is missing.

Applications of Data Science in Governance

Here are a few government sectors that can be highly benefited through data science.

1.     Detection of fraudulent transactions

2.     Taxation policies

3.     Defense

4.     Combat Terrorism

5.     Law enforcement

6.     Cyberattack

7.     Fighting corruption

8.     Human services and health

9.     Sports

10.  Agriculture

11.  Insurance

12.  Banking and public funds

Case studies of Data Science in Governance

These case studies can inspire learning more about the field, an out-of-box method of thinking, or ways to enhance governance based on similar experiences.

1.      Hospitality:

Airbnb leverages data science to analyze customer feedback and drive growth.

2.      Aviation:

Qantas implements predictive analytics to minimize losses.

3.      Healthcare:

Novo Nordisk is using NLP to drive innovation and AstraZeneca employs data science to discover medicines.

4.      Meteorology:

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) used data science to successfully evacuate 1.2 million people before the arrival of Cyclone Fani.

5.      Banking and Finance:

HDFC Bank used big data analytics to increase revenue and increase customer experience.

Conclusion

Data analytics in the government sector is indeed growing quickly, providing unique opportunities for governments, especially to improve governance and optimize their operations. This article provides an overview of a growing trend among government agencies to adopt big data technologies to enhance the public service experience for both citizens and employees.

Do you work in the municipal, regional, or federal government? And want to know how the public sector will evolve as a result of Big Data, machine learning, and analytics? If you want to advance your career or make a change, think about our Professional Data Science course and program.

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