European open data portals: Spotlight on the Netherlands' impactful initiatives

Across Europe, national and local open data platforms have emerged as tools for innovation, transparency, and public welfare. These portals, equipped with a diverse range of public and private sector datasets, are resources driving societal improvements. From enhancing public services to fostering economic growth, the potential applications of these platforms are vast and varied, making them valuable assets in our increasingly data-driven world.

In this new series about open data platforms, each news piece will focus on a specific example. Starting with the Netherlands, which stands out with its exemplary use of open data to improve traffic safety. The Dutch open data portal, with its extensive collection of over 22,900 datasets spanning 17 themes, demonstrates the impact of effectively harnessing public sector information. A notable success story from this portal is the national model ongevalrisico.nl, which has reformed road safety management through data.

Ongevalrisico.nl utilises a wide array of real-time data, including traffic patterns, accident statistics, and road conditions, to conduct in-depth analyses of risk factors on various transportation routes. This approach enables local authorities to proactively identify and mitigate high-risk areas. The shift from a reactive to a proactive stance in traffic safety management, facilitated by open data, has not only enhanced road safety but also optimised resource utilisation, leading to safer community spaces.

The Netherlands’ innovative use of open data in ongevalrisico.nl showcases the transformative power of local open data platforms. These platforms are instrumental in turning data into actionable insights, ultimately contributing to the well-being and safety of communities.

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