Opendatani FAQ

How do I use opendatani?
Opendatani includes searchable catalogues that provide access to "raw" datasets and various tools. You may currently access data in XML, Text/CSV or XLS formats. Please note that by accessing datasets or tools offered on opendatani, you agree to the Terms and Conditions, which you should read before accessing any data. If there are additional datasets that you would like to see included on this site, please feel free to suggest them using the feedback form.

What is data?
Data is a value or set of values representing a specific concept or concepts. Data becomes "information" when analysed and possibly combined with other data in order to extract meaning, and to provide context. The meaning of data can vary according to its context.

What format is the data held or linked to from opendatani?
Opendatani features a "Raw" Data Catalogue with instant view/download of platform-independent, machine readable data (e.g., XML or CSV file formats), as well as a link to page specific information regarding the respective dataset.

What is the plan for expanding the number of datasets made available through opendatani?
Additional datasets and tools will be added to opendatani as a result of departmental submissions and, where possible, to specific requests made by users of this site. Furthermore, the content, structure, and scope of the site will evolve over time and the catalogues will continue to grow as datasets are added.

Who developed opendatani?
Opendatani was developed by the Department of Finance and Personnel for Northern Ireland as a cross public and private sector initiative.

Will my comments be read?
Comments that you send through the 'feedback' section of the homepage of opendatani will be sent to the relevant agency for review.