Research and analysis

Research into governance models for Smart Data

Research into the design of a cross-economy Smart Data governance model.

• From: Department for Business and Trade
• Published: 26 January 2026
• Last updated: 30 January 2026 — See all updates

Documents

The future of Smart Data: developing governance models

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Details

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) commissioned the Public Service Consultants (PSC) to complete research that focused on developing possible models for a cross-economy Smart Data governance framework. The conclusions from this project will inform future Smart Data governance framework development.

The report includes the findings from:

• a literature review
• interviews
• focus groups
• governance model design
• an evaluation of the possible options to identify the possible future models for governance of Smart Data

The research concluded with 2 model recommendations for future Smart Data governance.

Medium-term model recommendation: federated governance

Recommendations for federated governance include:

• sector-specific implementation entities to lead delivery in each sector (appointed by competitive process)
• a Smart Data co-ordination entity (central body within DBT) to set common standards, accredit third parties, manage cross-sector services such as authentication
• existing regulators would enforce compliance with data sharing mandates and standards in their sector, working closely with the sector-specific implementation entities

Federated governance would allow sectors to progress at different speeds while ensuring coherence and interoperability across the Smart Data economy.

Longer-term model recommendation: centrally-led governance

Recommendations for centrally-led governance include:

• over time, government should consider moving toward a more centrally-led model
• central entity takes on more governance functions – for example, standards development, customer protection and engagement, regulatory compliance and implementation function

Centrally-led governance would reduce duplication, improve consistency, and strengthen cross-sector data sharing.

Governance models should be reviewed every 5 years to adapt as Smart Data matures.

Published 26 January 2026

Last updated 30 January 2026 + show all updates

1. 30 January 2026

   'The future of Smart Data: Developing governance models' updated, clarifying that Open Banking Limited is the current implementation body for Open Banking. This role will transition to an Open Banking Future Entity, the identity of which has yet to be decided and established.

2. 26 January 2026

   First published.