The Need for a Data Revolution

In this digital day and age, data and technology is everywhere, being used effortlessly and at times without realising. Indeed, the work of Bitmaker Software involves the utilisation of advanced technology. So why in this age do we still need a data revolution?

Image: http://www.dataforum.or.ke/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/data-imformatic.jpg

The issue stems from the fact that some sectors cannot fully utilise this technology. In some countries, data isn’t publicly available for citizens to use, look into and bring to account governments and organisations, especially when there are things that just don’t add up. In addition, some citizens don’t have the ability to understand and utilise this data due to a lack of education. In the case of poorer countries, some citizens are born with no identity, because there is no data to prove their existence; basic things we take for granted such as ID numbers, passports and thus legitimate citizenship. Without such, citizens cannot participate fully in society. Access to healthcare and education, for example, becomes impossible with no records and proof of identity.

The issue of the data revolution is part of the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Educating people in the field of technology is key to bringing out revolutionary ideas through exchanges. Of course, companies can engage in technology talks and summits, like Bitmaker does, but how do we address the wider challenges of the lack of (information on) technology and data, which causes large scale issues such as poverty? How can companies, especially technology related ones, do their bit to help the data revolution? What do you think?