Elder Research Blog Creating a Legacy as a Chief Data Officer by Optimizing the Value of Data for Public Good

As the Chief Data Officer (CDO) role gets established at each federal agency as required by the Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-435) (Evidence Act), I can’t help but feel conflicted. On one hand, I am excited that the federal government has taken such an intentional step towards a more data-driven government: There are enormous potential benefits when CDOs partner with program owners to innovate and deliver real values to the federal government and our citizens. On the other hand, I am concerned this role, if not properly supported and empowered, could become yet another silo yielding little real value.