What if I told you something that could empower our third sector and activists to enhance their capacity? From gathering evidence for funding tenders to campaigning for crucial social issues and much more? It's called open data, yet many in social action remain unaware of it. Primarily shaped by corporate entities, open data seems tailored only for technologists, alienating the third sector. But in reality, it's a powerful tool for social change, bolstering civil society, and creating resilient communities. You probably don’t realize that you are using data right now. Take your phone, for example. Do you check the weather before you leave the house or even on the TV? Perhaps you’ll be looking to move home soon. If you have children, would you check out local schools or transport links? Maybe you’re considering going to university. How will you compare the cost of your course to a different one? If you’re lost, the first thing you’ll probably do is take out your phone and open your GPS map app, right? The possibilities are limitless, from tracking your fitness or weight control to planning which bus or train you’ll take the next morning. The answer to all those questions will most likely involve a website or app that uses data to operate and do its job. It is built on data—data that is changing in real time. Big Data—sometimes data can get really vast! It is essentially a huge digital repository of information, comprising extensive and intricate datasets that surpass the capacity of conventional data processing tools. It encompasses structured data, often found in databases, as well as unstructured data such as text, images, and real?time sensor readings collected from diverse sources. To extract valuable insights, detect patterns, and uncover trends within these massive datasets, organizations leverage advanced analytical techniques and cutting?edge technologies.