What is data?
Data is information that has been gathered. This is done by both local and central government. A collection of data is known as a dataset. This can cover a range of subjects. For example, it can cover the names of ward councillors, election results and all spend over £500 by a local authority.
What is open data?
Open data is information presented in a machine readable format so that it can be read as well as being re-used and repurposed.