Research Report

Connecting Local Data Ecosystems

The "Connecting Local Data Ecosystems" report evaluates the feasibility and justification for implementing Integrated Data Management Systems (IDMS) in Nepalese municipalities. The study, conducted in Tulsipur, Simta, and Birgunj, identifies gaps in data interoperability and public access to municipal data. It proposes IDMS as a solution to centralize data, enhance sharing, and improve accessibility through machine-readable formats and APIs. Supported by Nepal’s policy framework, the report highlights technical capacities, data availability, and challenges like departmental silos and varying openness among municipalities. Recommendations focus on stakeholder collaboration, policy integration, and capacity building to ensure IDMS sustainability.

Key Insights

  • Purpose and Scope: The 'Connecting Local Data Ecosystems' report evaluates the feasibility and justification for implementing Integrated Data Management Systems (IDMS) in Nepalese municipalities, focusing on Tulsipur, Simta, and Birgunj.
  • Identified Gaps: The study identifies critical gaps in data interoperability and limited public access to municipal data, highlighting the fragmented nature of existing data systems.
  • Proposed Solution: It proposes IDMS as a centralized solution to enhance data sharing and accessibility via machine-readable formats and APIs.
  • Policy Alignment: The report aligns IDMS implementation with Nepal’s existing policy frameworks and underscores the relevance of technical capacity and data availability.
  • Challenges: Key challenges include departmental silos, inconsistent data openness across municipalities, and varying levels of technical readiness.
  • Recommendations: Recommendations emphasize the importance of stakeholder collaboration, integrating IDMS into policy frameworks, and investing in capacity building to ensure long-term sustainability.