In this paper we explore a methodological innovation in a practitioner based context - data sharing, the integration of data sets from different sources to improve organisational knowledge and strategic decision making. In this case the innovation is explored within public sector organisations. Evidence for the impact of such approaches is drawn from a case study at a UK local authority, which took part in a long term project to explore the issues of data sharing within their organisation. The paper highlights the issues that arise in trying to achieve data sharing in a live context and the breadth of barriers that such an innovation faces. However, it also highlights the value that can result from such practices, once implemented.
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