In the future, big data is supposed to help cities improve and optimize their operations. According to a new report that documents the innovative uses of data and evidence by seven major cities, the future is now.
"Bridgespan, a nonprofit consultancy for philanthropists and mission-driven organizations, and the education organization America Achieves have released a big report packed with case studies that illuminate a broader trend: how data-driven decision making can lead to the most effective use of a city's limited financial resources," report Anya Kamenetz.
"Just like the computer system Compstat led to a revolution in police work starting in New York City, and testing-based accountability measures have driven education reform nationwide, there is a strong case being made here that cities should invest in an infrastructure of evidence-gathering as a way of setting public priorities, picking winners and losers, and even convincing an often reluctant tax base to pay more money for programs that can be proven to work."
FULL STORY: How Cities Are Using Data To Save Lives

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