This report sets out the National Audit Office’s experience of data across government, including initial efforts to start to address the issues. It identifies three areas where the UK Government needs to establish the pre-conditions for success: clear strategy and leadership; a coherent infrastructure for managing data; and broader enablers to safeguard and support the better use of data. This report addresses the following points:

1. The current data landscape across the UK Government

2. How the UK Government needs a clear plan and leadership to improve its use of data

3. The quality, standards and systems needed to use data effectively

4. Wider conditions and enablers for success