Frequently Asked Question

How do I use Data.gov.bn?

Users can search for a particular dataset by entering relevant keywords into the search box. Alternatively, users can browse datasets in a particular category by clicking on the relevant icon located on the homepage of this website. In both cases, Data.gov.bn should users with a list of relevant datasets that they are searching or browsing for.

Once a user has found a dataset of interest, they can click on the title, upon which they will be brought to a page with more specific details on the specific dataset. Users can download the datasets by clicking on the downloadable file.

Please note that by accessing datasets or tools, you agree to the Data Policy, which you should read before accessing any data.

Who will be using the data?

Users of open data can range from the general public to businesses or even other government agencies. Through the Data.gov.bn website everyone and anyone would be able to freely download any data that has been published on the portal.

How will the data be used?

The open data that is published can be used and applied to a variety of situations and products. For example, a user could manually analyze a dataset to identify simple patterns or assess conditions. At a higher level the data could be fed into more complex tools such as business intelligence systems, data mining tools, or other analytical tools that allow business to improve their decision making processes. Additionally, multiple datasets could be combined to create new knowledge and insight, which can lead to whole new fields of application.

Please note that by accessing datasets or tools, you agree to the Data Policy which you should read before accessing any data.

How are the datasets in Data.gov.bn collected?

Government is among the largest creators and collectors of data in any country. These collected data offer value beyond what is captured from the original intended purpose. Some examples of how government create or collect these data include, but is not limited to:

  • Application submission for government services or products;
  • Data collection for population census;
  • Data generated from the smart meters and sensors;
  • Continuous digitization of media;
To support the Open Data Initiative, E-Government National Centre (EGNC) has developed the Data.gov.bn web portal that allows government agencies to voluntarily upload datasets that they wish to make public. The portal is managed by Department of Economic Planning and Statistics (DEPS), thus allowing ministries to focus on identifying, producing, and publishing relevant datasets. For clarification all datasets uploaded onto the portal are still owned by the respective agency and not EGNC or DEPS.
It is worth noting that Data.gov.bn is currently limited towards publishing of static data sets. However, live data also holds considerable value to the Open Data Initiative​​. EGNC will continue to encourage agencies to share relevant data as quickly as possible, as well as develop an Application Program Interface (API) directly into their systems that collect data in real-time or at frequent intervals. Having an API will allow users to receive to tap into the latest data allowing novel applications and timely analysis.
Can I request a dataset that is not available?

Data that are not yet published on the Data.gov.bn can be requested by submitting the request data form. Any request data will be forwarded to the relevant Government Agency to encourage them to release the necessary data. However, we cannot guarantee if or when the responsible agency will upload and release the requested data.