Anonymized, high quality data collected using tax payers’ money often remains unaccessible to researchers and analysts as statistical agencies adhere to restrictive release policies. In particular in
limited access orders (North et al. 2007) access is restricted to selected
researchers and institutions; access that can be reversed when data are ‘misused’.
In this way critical and imaginative use of data is stifled.

OpenMicroData (OMD) aims to enhance access to microdata by providing a platform on which those in the possession of micro data can share them with the world. This can be done anonymously. In this
way OMD operates as a Wiki-leaks for micro data. OpenMicroData also encourages
statistical agencies to improve data access.

OpenMicroData went life in February 2010 through its website and associated blog . At present OpenMicroData shares mostly data from East Africa. None the less many
researchers have found their way to OpenMicroData.

To expand its reach OpenMicroData is looking for people who would actively identify data for sharing. If you are interested in becoming a 'Friend of OpenMicroData' please write to us at: openmicrodata@gmail.com.