DCI Quick Guide: Key Concepts To Know About Data Flow
In this DCI Quick Guide, we define a set of emerging terms used to describe economic and policy-related aspects of the data-driven world.
Research Archive
150 posts
An archive of DCI’s research publications from 2018-2026, prior to updating our focus on the foundations of the frontier economy: energy, compute, and work.
Border Control: The Rise of Data Nationalism
This paper details, breaks down, and analyzes worldwide trends surrounding the rise of data nationalism — defined loosely as the effort by nation-states to ensure control over data for a range of normative and security-based reasons.
Gettin' Paid: Pros and Cons of Data Dividends
The value of data is contextual and determined by how it is being used; at different stages in its production cycle, it has varying degrees of economic utility. Furthermore it is often unclear who “owns” data, and what rights and responsibilities that comes with, as data is often co-created by…
Digitally Empowered: How digital tools power small businesses amid COVID-19
This report demonstrates how small businesses deployed digital tools during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Published by the Connected Commerce Council with Google.
Say It Ain’t So: GDPR Data Regulation Hurts EU Economic Growth
Does government regulation of data measurably affect the economy? This technical report examines the consequences of GDPR for investment in new EU tech startups, concluding its effects are broadly negative.
Data Borders: Unintended Consequences of Localization Policies
Data localization, storing data within the borders of a country where it was generated, may enable those countries to benefit from their “data assets.”
Backseat Driver: Privacy Implications of Connected Vehicles
Today’s U.S. mass-market cars are increasingly “smart,” with on-board wireless data connectivity that provides a range of services.
Mission Critical: Are Tech Platforms Critical Infrastructure?
This paper argues that large technology platforms may qualify as critical infrastructure. Assuming this is the case, the author reviews reasonable industry “good practices” for such companies working with the government to formalize this status.
Digital Tightrope: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection in the Data-Driven Economy
As the recognition of the value of data in the global economy has steadily risen, so has public interest in how data is owned, transferred, and utilized. This paper explores the delicate regulatory balance between protecting consumer welfare and supporting digital innovation.
Pipe Dream: Challenges With Data Portability in India
Proposed legislation in India would grant people a “right to data portability” (RDP), allowing them to retrieve their personal data from data controllers and transfer it to others. This paper analyzes the legally nuanced pros and cons of RDP to determine if it has a net benefit.
It’s A Matter of Trust: Exploring Data Fiduciaries in India
An active debate about regulations governing data privacy and data protection that the rest of the world should pay attention to is taking place in India. This paper explores part of that debate -- the concept of treating data platforms as ‘fiduciaries’ within the context of Indian law.
Let It Flow: Effects of Data Localization Regulations on Small Businesses
How might “data localization” regulations -- restrictions on data flow across international borders -- affect small business success? This research paper analyzes the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses in India due to such regulation.