DataFest18 took place at a time when data was top of the news agenda. What the festival achieved was putting the potential positive power of data to the fore. A prominent theme throughout the week was the ethical use of data and development of transparency in how algorithms process citizen’s data.

At a time when every aspect of our lives is data-driven, data can be used for amazing things. DataFest was about showcasing the good – how insights from data analysis can inspire actions that then enrich patients and citizens’ lives socially and economically. From predicting flu pandemics and childhood obesity to improving B2B payments and earthquake response strategies, DataFest highlighted how data can provide evidence to drive better, more effective ways of doing things.

Morals, Ethics, Regulations

Core to delivering such benefits is a commitment to working with the right morals, the right ethics and the right regulation. This has to remain a key focus for everyone in the industry.

The data sector in Scotland is on the rise. It is worth an estimated £20 billion to the Scottish economy by 2020. Scotland already boasts one of the most sophisticated data science landscapes in the world and we have a growing pool of talented data professionals which is feeding the growing skills demand.

Indeed, the country is now home to over 150 companies engaged in creating data-centred solutions across various sectors including the likes of Skyscanner, Barrachd, Ecometrica and Merkle Aquila as well as newer players on the scene AI firm Peak, Previse and Brainnwave.  Many of these players were involved in DataFest.

This was the context for DataFest18, the second outing for the festival, which ran the week before last with 45 events taking place around the country attended by over 3,000 people. A core objective was to inspire, engage and encourage further growth and innovation.

To say it achieved this is an understatement. It delivered in spades.

Feedback on all aspects of the Festival have been fantastic…

• the inspiration and opportunities for over 300 data science students to connect with recruiting companies at Data Talent
• the boost in the number of Fringe events – workshops, hackathons and networking – to 43  around the country (a 87% increase on last year)
• over 450 delegates at the two-day international conference, Data Summit which featured world class speakers including BBC Broadcaster Dr Hannah Fry, Data Scientist Dr Kirk Borne and Orsola De Marco from ODI.

The success of Data Fest 18 gives huge confidence that Scotland has the power to realise the full potential of data.