Finding datasets for a research study, project or just out of curiosity, can be quite hard. First you need to find the databases or websites that may contain the data, and then you need to search each one individually. Traditional search engines are not ideal, because they are not restricted to datasets and cannot filter for dataset properties such as subject or data format. Although dataset search engines exist, these are often focussed on a single discipline, region or type of publisher.
The Open Data Library (OpenDaL) is a dataset search engine that’s built with these issues in mind. It enables you to search more than 500 data portals in one place, and includes data from government, community and research data portals from all over the world and across disciplines. In addition to keyword based search, you can filter search results by dataset properties, such as data format, location, subject, data type or temporal coverage.
OpenDaL is a free service that can be used by anyone, and is continuously updated. Wonder what’s next? Sign up for updates, so you’re notified when new features are released!
Features
How is OpenDaL different from other search engines?
Metadata Search
In addition to keyword filters, you can filter search results based on dataset properties such as type, subject, format or temporal coverage
Spatial Filters
Many datasets are about specific locations. Draw a bounding box on the map, to find data about your area of interest
Combining Portals
Find data from hundreds of government data, research data or community data portals from all over the world, across disciplines.