The Government has released use cases collected as part of a study into the new and innovate ways Australian organisations are using open government data.

The study targets companies and non-profit organisations that use open government data to generate new business, develop new products and services, improve business operations or create social value.

Small businesses made up the majority of participants (79 percent) primarily from data and technology, research and consulting, and geospatial and mapping companies:

• 69% were private companies
• 20% were non-profit organisations
• 49% of organisations that participated had revenue sources that included consulting
• 43% were government contracts
• 29% were organisations that used data analysis for clients

Most companies are using data to:

• 65% - to create new or improved products or services
• 55% - to generate cost efficiencies
• 51% - to identify new opportunities

The survey shows companies are using multiple datasets:

• 40% of participants said they use between 11 and 50 data sources
• 22% use more than 100 data sources
• 31% use less than 10 data sources

The report also provides insight into what data is being used:

• 60% of participants day they use it within their organisation

Other types of data commonly used by the private sector included

• 49% - the environment
• 45% - demographics and social
• 42% - positioning and GPS

The Open Data 500 Australia will remain open to continue to build the catalogue of open data use cases.  Any organisation currently using open government data is encouraged to participate in the study at: http://www.opendata500.com/au/submitCompany/