Measuring the benefits

At a time when public sector spending is under forensic scrutiny, building a watertight business case for geospatial data is not as easy as we might think. Its value is often only realised when combined with other datasets; there is no one-size-fits-all valuation method, and its long-term value can be difficult to predict.

With these considerations in mind, the Geospatial Commission has worked with Frontier Economics and a range of stakeholders to publish a 57-page guidance document that will help public sector organisations more effectively drive the investment case for location data.

Its practical guidance includes a seven-step framework that will help decision-makers articulate the rationale for investment and identify potential benefits. Deep-dive case studies relating to the National Underground Asset Register, the Public Sector Geospatial Agreement, Transport for London Open Data and HM Land Registry Data Valuation are also included.

In offering this new guidance, Thalia Baldwin, Commissioner of the Geospatial Commission, said: “Linking data to location improves analysis, decisions and outcomes. It is vital that the public sector invests to maintain our strategic national geospatial assets. Our guidance will support organisations to make a coherent and persuasive case for improved geospatial data.”