PDOK: A case study in open data and geospatial collaboration

Country

Netherlands

Program Manager

Pieter Meijer

Case

PDOK

Program Manager

Pieter Meijer

Case

PDOK

Country

Netherlands

PDOK: A case study in open data and geospatial collaboration

PDOK, a Dutch geospatial data platform, faced a myriad of challenges early in its existence, including technical issues, lack of support, and disengaged partners. However, through strategic leadership and a commitment to open standards, PDOK was able to overcome these obstacles and achieve phenomenal growth. This case study explores how PDOK transformed from a struggling initiative into a thriving platform, handling billions of requests and hundreds of datasets. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a clear vision.

Background

Launched in 2013, PDOK aimed to make Dutch geospatial data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) under the EU’s INSPIRE Directive. The platform, a data distribution facility, was initially subsidised for development. However, when it came to securing ongoing funding for maintenance and operations, it became challenging to gain financial support from government bodies.

 

Mission Challenge

PDOK faced significant technical issues, a lack of support, and disconnected partners who didn’t feel heard or aligned with the programme’s goals. The immediate challenge was finding funding for the next phase, as collaboration was deteriorating.

Approach

Pieter Meijer brought the team back together, restoring trust and re-engaging partners (despite losing one). He delivered results on time, using legal frameworks to drive action. As government bodies began to recognize the immense benefits of the platform—its ability to efficiently distribute data and meet legal requirements—funding became easier to secure, with multiple entities eager to participate.

Outcome

What started as a platform hosting 40 datasets and 580 million server requests annually has now expanded to handle 30 billion requests and over 210 datasets, representing a 5,000% growth. Thanks to its adoption of cutting-edge OGC API standards, PDOK is now future-proofed and fully supported for continued growth.

Wing EMC capabilities deployed

- Programme Management
- Facilitating and establishing effective cooperation
- Realising technical solutions
- Using in-depth knowledge of geo information infrastructures to steer and correct the programme
- Facilitating coherent and consistent communication from staff to board level

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