Data as a tool for researching the digital world

This summary brief draws together insights and reflections from a series of workshops facilitated by the British Academy which focused on exploring the challenges and opportunities of online data access for SHAPE research. The brief highlights several common themes across discussions that centre the need to approach the challenge of access to data for research in a more holistic way. This includes:

• Legislating on data access for research
• Addressing conflicting messaging and shifting narratives on the value of online data
• Supporting and enhancing the role of trusted data institutions
• Incentivising data access through cross-sector engagement
• Promoting data skills for researchers