EU Data Act : how open data becomes innovation

Data sharing has been recognized as a key enabler for fostering innovation. Until now, access to machine-generated data relevant for developing innovative products, services, and business models has been limited. The EU Data Act introduces a novel legal framework that grants companies access to previously unavailable or restricted sources of machine data. However, data alone does not automatically lead to innovation. This research-in-progress contribution aims to investigate how access to newly available data transforms the processes through which data is turned into innovation. The study focuses on a novel ecosystem involving a triad of stakeholders—data holders, data recipients, and users of connected devices—examines the required capabilities, particularly data literacy, and explores the types of data involved in these innovation processes. An exploratory mixed-methods approach is planned, with the study being conducted in the DACH region.