Flemish Open Data Day

Yesterday I took part in the Open Data Day organized by the Flemish government in Brussels. Open Data is experiencing a boost these days: governments all over the world are pledging to open up their information, and they expect good things to happen in return. The European Union dreams out loud about increased government efficiency, more transparancy, and 140 billion euros in economic activity. Good things are certainly happening: inspiring initiatives are sprouting up, and with more than 200 people in attendance, the Flemish Open Data Day showed that in Flanders too, interest is high. At the same time, it brought to light some possible conflicts and practical problems.