Administrative data

DARPA Big Data

Administrative data refers to the information collected, processed, and stored in digital and paper formats by governmental and non-governmental organizations for the purpose of managing their operations and responsibilities. This type of data encompasses a wide range of records, including but not limited to, personal records, financial transactions, health records, educational records, and employment data. Administrative data is crucial for policy making, administrative planning, and the evaluation of public services.

Overview

Administrative data is generated through the routine activities of organizations and institutions. Unlike survey data, which is collected specifically for research purposes, administrative data is collected for operational needs. This characteristic makes administrative data a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers, as it provides extensive coverage of populations and phenomena over time, often at a lower cost than data collected through primary research methods.

Types of Administrative Data

Administrative data can be categorized into several types, including:

• Personal Records: Data related to individuals, such as birth and death records, marriage licenses, and social security information.
• Health Records: Information on individual health services, including hospital admissions, prescription records, and vaccination histories.
• Educational Records: Data on student enrollment, attendance, grades, and qualifications.
• Financial Transactions: Records of financial transactions, including tax records, social welfare payments, and unemployment benefits.
• Employment Data: Information on employment status, earnings, and workplace accidents.

Uses of Administrative Data

Administrative data is used for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Policy Making and Evaluation: Governments use administrative data to inform policy decisions, evaluate the impact of policies and programs, and improve public services.
• Research: Researchers utilize administrative data to study social, economic, and health-related phenomena.
• Administrative Planning: Organizations use their own administrative data for planning, resource allocation, and management purposes.

Challenges and Considerations

While administrative data is a valuable resource, its use comes with challenges and considerations, including:

• Data Quality: The accuracy and completeness of administrative data can vary, affecting its reliability for research and policy analysis.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: The use of personal and sensitive information raises concerns about privacy and data protection.
• Access and Usability: Gaining access to administrative data can be difficult due to legal, ethical, and technical barriers. Additionally, the data may not be in a user-friendly format.

Conclusion

Administrative data offers a rich source of information for understanding and improving public services, policy making, and research. However, its effective use requires careful consideration of data quality, privacy, and accessibility issues.

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