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

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