The text on this page was automatically translated and hence may differ from the original. No rights can be derived from this translation.
In [this publication](http://dialogiconderzoek.nl/nieuwsberichten/Big%20data.pdf), we explore the (potential) impact of big data on policy and policy research. Digital tools are generating data sets faster, in larger quantities, and more fleetingly. These big data sets can be used to support policy and answer research questions through unexpected and creative combinations of big data. Currently, information science and economic perspectives dominate discussions around big data. In addition to these valuable perspectives, this argument presents a more policy-oriented view of this phenomenon. In our view, it is crucial to establish connections between owners of big data sets, potential users of big data sets, and policy issues. This will create opportunities to use big data to address societal problems and achieve innovations (including in policy research). Developing these connections remains a challenge for policymakers and researchers.
We invite readers to respond to this article.
*Dialogic, February 2015*