Data science and Ofcom Jelena Dzakula Data Power

Data science and Ofcom Jelena Dzakula Data Power 2017, Ottawa 23 June 2017

Introduction Ofcom is a pilot case study for a broader research Interest in the application of data science in communications governance by different stakeholders: Government departments Regulators Pubic interest groups Citizens and those representing their interest Data science – both big data analytics and open data

The framework The question is not only whether the use of data science made Ofcom ‘better’ but if it contributed to its making it more democratic: Transparency Accountability Citizen participation

The case studies Communications Market Report Public interest test – availability, consumption and influence of news Social media conversations Measuring consumer experience of using mobile services Spectrum use by the satellite industry

General results Surprisingly little big data analytics Huge reliance on surveys News consumption – perfect area for the use of big data analytics but no access to data negotiated No analysis of the debates in the social media The new app is a very innovative idea

Smart phones app Measures consumers’ experiences of using voice and data services on their mobile phones The app solves the problem of data access It’s voluntary – solves some of the ethical problems associated with privacy and consent However Low numbers - 4, 288 used the app for at least a week

Use of spectrum Big project aimed at making the data open as well as use it for ongoing analytics Access to data negotiated with all industry players Noble cause but huge practical problems Data is very dynamic It would require significant resources for the industry to share it with the regulator on an on-going basis Confidentiality issues Very good example of the difficulties in making use of big data analytics by regulators

Obstacles No access to the relevant data – this is the biggest challenge There are no frameworks for data sharing Low data quality No ethical framework at the moment

Opportunities Ofcom has significant resources There is the right momentum nationally with the focus on Evidence-based policy Efficiency There is the appropriate culture at Ofcom and will to use big data analytics

Final judgement Frameworks for transparency and accountability have not changed to accommodate big data use and analysis There is no public information on What data has been used What algorithms have been used How that influenced the decisions made

Influence of citizens Not empowering for the citizens since the data that can potentially be used Is not deliberative The citizens have decision-making powers in relation to this The use of big data might have a negative effects on other channels of citizen participation: Consultations Public interest groups