By: Rim Sopanha & Pet Chhunhorng
Open Development Cambodia website displaying content related to the topic
In today’s digital world, accessing essential data has never been easier. Open Development Cambodia (ODC) offers free access to valuable information on topics ranging from national resource management to land issues, directly through their website. With just a few clicks, anyone in Cambodia can access crucial, transparent data to help make informed decisions. The platform’s goal is to empower people from all walks of life, including students, journalists, and local residents, by providing them with the information they need.
Entrance gate of the Open Development Cambodia office
How It Started
What began as a small, successful initiative has evolved into Open Development Cambodia (ODC), a dynamic NGO focused on providing free, accessible data to all Cambodians. By transforming complex data into easily digestible formats, ODC is helping communities make informed decisions that drive positive change and foster transparency across the nation.
“We don’t create data ourselves; instead, we gather it from trusted sources, such as the Council of Cambodia, and then make it easier for the public to understand,” Piseth Vong, Senior Data Research & GIS Officer at Open Development Cambodia, explained. “Our goal is to ensure that data is freely available to everyone, regardless of their background or resources. By making this information accessible, we empower individuals and communities to make decisions that positively impact their lives.”
Newly introduced section on “Social Accountability”
The data on Open Development Cambodia’s website includes content related to natural protected areas, land management, and more. “In 2016, we produced a forest cover map, which garnered reactions from various ministries. The platform also provides reference links, ensuring the data’s authenticity”. Piseth highlighted that while some data might be sensitive, its impact depends on how users apply it. “For example, news reporters might use our data to write impactful stories, but they must be cautious about the sensitive angles when presenting it,” he added.
Challenges
While Open Development Cambodia’s mission continues to grow, it faces challenges in obtaining sufficient data. “When sources are scarce, it’s difficult to publish meaningful content,” Piseth admitted. “However, when there is a wealth of data, we are able to release it without delay.” Despite this, we work tirelessly to ensure that all data released is accurate and verified before being made publicly available.
An example of this was the forest cover map produced by us in 2016. This project highlighted our commitment to providing important, transparent data. However, it also brought about challenges. The map attracted reactions from various ministries, who expressed concerns regarding the data’s impact. Piseth explained that the data was extremely useful but also sensitive, as it could influence discussions on environmental policies and land use. He acknowledged that such data needed careful handling, as its usage could have far-reaching implications.
“Accuracy is a top priority for Open Development Cambodia,” Piseth stressed. “We take great care in verifying the information before publishing it. We cross-reference data with external sources to ensure its reliability, maintaining a high standard of transparency in all our publications.”
User Opinions
The ease of accessing data on the Open Development Cambodia website has impressed many users, particularly students and young researchers. Wattra Hout, a third-year student at IISPP, said, “I was surprised by how easily I could find data on the ODC website. In a short time, I was able to discover a lot, and it’s very helpful for my studies.”
Section on “Environment and Natural Resources”
Lyda Morm, a third-year student at CADT, also expressed her appreciation for the Open Development Cambodia website. “It’s incredibly easy to find the data I need. Moreover, ODC also offers training programs and organizes events that are really helpful for youth,” she said.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Open Development Cambodia plans to broaden its scope and include more diverse fields, such as economics. Piseth shared, “We aim to create even larger and more comprehensive datasets, giving the public access to valuable information across various sectors.” This expansion will allow us to further extend our reach and provide data on critical issues that shape Cambodia’s future.
“We want to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to data that empowers them to make better decisions,” Piseth said. Our dedicated team of 21 staff members remains committed to our mission. As we continue to grow, Piseth emphasized that our work will only become more impactful as we broaden our datasets and offer even more resources for individuals and communities in Cambodia.
Metadata
Title
Open Development Cambodia
Author
Vong Pisith, Senior Data Research & GIS Officer at Open Development Cambodia
Year
2011 – Present
Place of Publication
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Technical Requirements
Standard Browser
Live Version
Archived Version
N/A
Source
Interviewed with Mr. Vong Pisith on 16 December 2024
Disclosure of used AI and writing tools: Used Grammarly to correct Grammar