Abstract

Information systems (IS) in the public sector are expected to utilize technology to the benefit of society. Making data available to the public is therefore a required action. Indeed, collaborative online systems that provide free tools for data aggregation and visualization demonstrate the potential value of online access to data. The integration of information from multiple sources creates new valuable information that serves the public interest economically, socially, and environmentally. This paper examines the access to planning and real estate data, since land is one of the most substantial assets for citizens and governments. A geographical-interfaced IS was developed in order to prove the technological feasibility of a collaborative system in Israel. Nevertheless, data were not available. Examination has detected a variety of barriers that set strict limits on the collection and use of data that should be free. Open data could enrich the applicability of geographical interfaces, mash-ups and dashboards, thus improve transparency and fair access to information. If the public sector prevents public participation, the public could be the active producer of data. This study yields a working prototype; a new system that enables data entry by the users, i.e. the general public. A theoretical model that frames the findings is Leidner & Kaywort's (2006) technology-culture conflict. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

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