Open Data in Evaluation: Implications and Challenges of Facilitating Data Interpretation Using Open Data

Abstract

This article explores the role of open data in evaluation, using a DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) evaluation case study of the outdoor recreation industry, to highlight data interpretation and multi-year data infrastructure challenges. It argues that open data enhances transparency and provides practical benchmarks for meaningful interpretations. Our experience with Camber Outdoors (CO) illustrates how having accessible data could have mitigated early evaluation challenges by providing meaningful comparison data. The discussion explores how open data aligns with evaluator competence and addresses the barriers to its adoption, including ethical considerations, resource constraints, and data privacy issues. We advocate for professional development and strategic incentives to foster safe, data-driven environments that encourage open data practices and advance evaluation scholarship.