How citywide data strategies can connect the dots, drive results

Data is more central than ever to improving service delivery, managing performance, and identifying opportunities that better serve residents. That’s why a growing number of cities are adding a new tool to their arsenal—the citywide data strategy—to provide teams with a holistic view of data efforts and then lay out a roadmap for scaling successful approaches throughout city hall.

These comprehensive strategies are increasingly “critical to help mayors reach their visions,” according to Amy Edwards Holmes, executive director of The Bloomberg Center for Government Excellence at Johns Hopkins University, which is helping dozens of cities across the Americas up their data games as part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies City Data Alliance (CDA).

Bloomberg Cities spoke with experts in the field and leaders in pioneering cities to learn more about the importance of citywide data strategies and how they can help:

• Turn "pockets of promise" into citywide strengths;
• Build upon and consolidate other citywide strategic efforts; 
• Improve performance management and service delivery;
• Align staff data capabilities with city needs;
• Drive lasting cultural change through leadership commitment.