Canada’s Data Strategy for the Federal Public Service (2023-2026)

The 2023–2026 Data Strategy for the Federal Public Service of Canada is a comprehensive framework designed to enhance data governance, management, and utilization across federal departments and agencies. The strategy aims to foster a data-driven culture, improve decision-making processes, and deliver better services to Canadians. Here’s a detailed look at its key components and objectives:

Vision and Objectives

Vision: The strategy envisions a federal public service where data is leveraged as a strategic asset, supporting effective and efficient policy-making, service delivery, and transparency.

Objectives:

1. Enhance Data Governance: Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities for data management across the public service.
2. Improve Data Quality and Accessibility: Ensure that data is accurate, complete, timely, and accessible to authorized users.
3. Promote Data Interoperability: Enable seamless data sharing and integration across different departments and systems.
4. Strengthen Data Literacy and Skills: Build the capacity of public servants to effectively use data through training and development programs.
5. Ensure Data Privacy and Security: Implement robust measures to protect sensitive data and comply with privacy regulations.

Strategic Pillars

1. Governance and Accountability:
   • Data Governance Framework: Develop a comprehensive governance framework to oversee data management activities.
   • Chief Data Officers (CDOs): Appoint CDOs in key departments to lead data initiatives and ensure alignment with the overall strategy.
   • Data Stewardship: Define data stewardship roles to maintain data quality and integrity.
2. Data Management and Quality:
   • Data Standards and Policies: Establish standardized data policies and practices to ensure consistency.
   • Data Quality Management: Implement processes to continuously monitor and improve data quality.
   • Metadata Management: Develop and maintain metadata standards to facilitate data discovery and understanding.
3. Data Sharing and Interoperability:
   • Open Data Initiatives: Promote the release of non-sensitive data to the public to enhance transparency and innovation.
   • Interoperability Standards: Adopt common data standards and protocols to enable data sharing across systems and platforms.
   • Data Integration Platforms: Invest in technology platforms that support data integration and collaboration.
4. Data Literacy and Skills Development:
   • Training Programs: Offer comprehensive training programs to improve data literacy among public servants.
   • Data Communities of Practice: Foster communities of practice where data professionals can share knowledge and best practices.
   • Professional Development: Encourage continuous learning and professional development in data-related fields.
5. Privacy and Security:
   • Data Privacy Framework: Develop and implement a framework to ensure data privacy and compliance with relevant regulations.
   • Cybersecurity Measures: Strengthen cybersecurity practices to protect data from unauthorized access and breaches.
   • Risk Management: Conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate data-related risks.

Implementation and Monitoring

• Action Plans: Each department will develop specific action plans aligned with the strategy’s objectives.
• Performance Metrics: Establish metrics to track progress and measure the impact of data initiatives.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update the strategy to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Expected Outcomes

• Enhanced Decision-Making: Better data quality and accessibility will lead to more informed and effective decision-making.
• Improved Service Delivery: Data-driven insights will help design and deliver services that meet the needs of Canadians more effectively.
• Increased Transparency and Trust: Open data initiatives will promote transparency and build public trust in government.
• Innovation and Efficiency: Data interoperability and sharing will drive innovation and operational efficiency across the public service.