Public Sector Data Management in a Developing Economy

Abstract

An island state government agency responsible for publishing monthly import/export data had problems meeting the monthly publication schedule. It took the group more than three months to process data from a single month. A new director for the unit was under pressure to publish the import/export data at least quarterly. An initial investigation reviewed problems of inefficiency, poor technical support, downsizing under budget reduction, and confusing data standards. The data processing staffs had minimal technical skill with some approaching retirement. There were increasing expectations for the unit to provide enriched and customized data, which could strain the capability and resources of the unit. A general deficiency in computer and information literacy gave little hope for internal information resource development. On the other hand, concerns for information privacy, shrinking budget, and control over data resources limited potential assistance from outside groups.