How States Can Succeed in the Data Economy

The knowledge economy is here, and in it, data is king. As Daniel Castro writes in StateTech, technological advancements such as faster computing and better communication networks have made the collection, storage and analysis of data easier, faster and cheaper. Across governments, the private sector and civil society, the benefits of using data are fast outpacing the costs, and those who choose to invest time, effort and resources in leveraging data to boost productivity are already seeing results.

To determine which states are getting it right, ITIF’s Center for Data Innovation recently published a report comparing the 50 states based on 25 indicators across three categories. States at the top of the rankings—Massachusetts, Washington, Maryland, California and Delaware—all had taken proactive steps to promote data innovation. But there are clear steps others can take to catch up.