Enhance Data.gov's value by adding link to ICR where appropriate
As Data.gov becomes populated with data sets that can be sliced, diced, and linked, valuable mashups and other non-federally developed applications are likely to result. However, adding to Data.gov what is essentially an additional layer of metadata - the Information Collection Request - could enable a second value chain that might become just as significant. This additional information can be provided merely by posting ...more »
As Data.gov becomes populated with data sets that can be sliced, diced, and linked, valuable mashups and other non-federally developed applications are likely to result. However, adding to Data.gov what is essentially an additional layer of metadata - the Information Collection Request - could enable a second value chain that might become just as significant. This additional information can be provided merely by posting the URL to the Information Collection Request with the dataset, where applicable.
BACKGROUND
An Information Collection Request exists in cases where federal data sets involve collection from non-federal organizations or individuals. The "OMB Number" at the bottom of a form, such as a tax return, application for benefits, or survey, denotes OMB approval of the form's use by an agency as a vehicle for collecting information. The agency has to show OMB that the information is necessary in order to administer benefits, monitor compliance, improve customer service, etc. Citations and policy memos about the process are to be found at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/inforeg_infocoll/#icr. A Fed-centric view of federal agency clearance activity can be found at http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain. The addition of the citizen-centric view to Data.gov would enable even greater transparency and create the conditions for engaging citizens including federal employees more deeply - possibly resulting in insights that would enable agencies and OMB to make public data collection more effective in support of performance improvement.
IMPLEMENTION
For every Data.gov dataset that is a result of public submission of information to an agency, post the public URL to the OMB-approved Information Collection Request that pertains to that data set.
EXAMPLE
The School File that is refreshed weekly at
http://www.ed.gov/offices/OSFAP/PEPS/dataextracts.html
is authorized by an approved Information Collection Request HERE:
http://edicsweb.ed.gov/browse/browsecoll.cfm?pkg_serial_num=38
If the School File is posted to Data.gov, the preceding URL should be made available with the file layout, codebook, and other metadata.
(Why is this one posted weekly? Because it provides facts that public stakeholders need about the current eligibility of colleges, universities, and career schools to administer Pell Grants and student loans. Such eligibility is dynamic. The dataset reflects both the newest data provided by the school and the current eligibility status of the school.)
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