The history and future prospects of open data and open source software

TL;DR

This paper explores the historical development and future potential of open data and open source software, emphasizing their role in enhancing transparency, democracy, and collective intelligence worldwide.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive historical overview and discusses future prospects of open data and open source software, highlighting their importance for transparency and societal progress.

Findings

Open data and open source software have evolved significantly over time.

Openness in data and software can enhance transparency and democracy.

Future prospects include increased societal benefits and technological innovation.

Abstract

Open data for all New Yorkers is the tagline on New York City's open data website. Open government is being promoted at most countries of the western world. Government transparency levels are being measured by the amount of data they share through their online public repositories. Additionally, open source software is promoted at governments, academia, and the industry. This is the new digital story of this century, and the new testament between the Gods of technology and there users. Data and software openness will redefine the path forward and aim to rekindle our collective intelligence. Data and software openness can redefine Data Democracy and be the catalyst for its progress. This chapter provides a historical insight into data and software openness, the beginnings, the heroes, prospects for the future, and all things we cannot afford to negotiate or lose.