The Role of Data Science and Volunteered Geographic Information in Enhancing Government Service Delivery

Abstract

This chapter explored the transformative impact of data science and VGI on public service provision. VGI, as user-generated content, has played a significant role in democratizing geographic information, empowering users to actively participate in data generation and curation. The integration of VGI into government operations has presented new opportunities for improving service delivery across various domains like education, health, transportation, and waste management. Additionally, data science has complemented VGI by utilizing advanced techniques such as AI, IoT, big data, and blockchain, thereby revolutionizing the entire landscape of government service delivery. However, the successful utilization of VGI in public sector delivery requires addressing critical challenges, including data quality, security, inclusivity, technological infrastructure, and specialized skill sets. Collaborative efforts involving governments, volunteers, and academia can enhance the quality of VGI data.