Good Data Initiative

Building the leading platform for intergenerational and interdisciplinary debate on the data economy.

146 gigabytes of data per day are produced for every person on earth. How do we use it for good?

Good Data Initiative (GDI) is an independent think tank run by students & alumni from the University of Cambridge. We conduct high-quality, nonpartisan research on the impact of the new data economy on humans, organisations, and society, and support young change makers in shaping how data are being used.

Recent News.

 

What we do.

Research.

 

We conduct high-quality, nonpartisan research around some of the most pressing issues in the data economy.

Our research is available through:

  • GDI Review: Bi-annual research reports for industry leaders and policy makers (more)

  • GDI Labs: Expert-led research groups working on white papers and academic publications (more)

  • GDI Blog: Accessible, short-form analyses and insights published on Medium (more)

Impact.

 

We support young change makers around the world who are actively shaping how data are being used, underpinned by rigorous, high-quality research.

Take part in this change through our open events:

  • Good Data Assembly: Joint initiative with the Global Shapers’ Cambridge Hub to widen access to debate on issues within the data economy via virtual Citizens’ Assembly events

  • Good Data Talks: Regular invited speaker events with industry leaders, academic experts, and policy makers (more)

Themes we’re currently working on.

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Digital
China.

With around 30% of global venture capital investments, China’s digital economy is thriving. Some, such as best-selling author Kai-Fu Lee, even argue that Chinese tech is ahead of the West. In any event, we can certainly learn from digital players in China.

This research initiative explores:

  • Venture capital in China

  • Digital business models across industry verticals, incl. finance and eCommerce

  • Detailed case studies

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The Passion
Economy.

While automation and innovations in AI are threatening jobs from the labour market, creator platforms allow creators to publish creative work at low cost. In fact, the highest paid Youtube channel earns more than $20M per year. In the post-Covid-19 world, what does this mean for the future of work?

This research initiative explores:

  • Emerging models of work

  • Platforms & their business model

  • Influencer earnings data

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Identity in a
Digital World.

Digital applications are increasingly changing the way we live. As we move into a more and more “digital world”, we will experience profound changes both in how we see and define ourselves as individuals.

This research initiative explores:

  • Human identity

  • (Para-)social relationships

  • Organisational identity

Our members have come from & gone on to work with some of the world’s leading institutions.

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Curious?

We’d love to hear from you.

There are many opportunities for students & organisations to get involved.