GDS Data Architecture
- About
Data Sharing Principles
- Overview
- 1. Treat data as an asset
- 2. Federate first
- 3. Prepare for Once Only
- 4. Reuse sharing solutions
- 5. Support automation
- 6. Design for all data stakeholders
- 7. Use common standards for sharing
- 8. Share data transparently
- 9. Share data lawfully and ethically
- 10. Secure shared data proportionately
Capability Model
About
This site contains draft versions of the Future Data Architecture resources. Last updated on 13th January 2026.
Who are we?
- The Data Architecture team is a central function within GDS’ Data Sharing unit within the Office for the Government’s Chief Data Officer (OCDO).
- Our main goal is to support the delivery of data architecture for robust and ethical data sharing initiatives in the public sector.
- We work with DDaT professionals to produce data architecture guidance, policy and frameworks for use across government.
- Our resources will align with the vision for a modern digital government, the needs of our public sector stakeholders, and the interests of the public.
What are we doing?
We’re currently developing two resources with a focus on data sharing.
- Data Sharing Principles: a set of high-level principles for steering data sharing and collaboration between public sector organisations.
- Data Sharing Capability Model: a framework for mapping data sharing capabilities within organisations.
How can I get involved in this work?
Join the Data and Technical Architects Forum (DTAF). We run a cross public sector group for data and technical architects to connect, share their thoughts on central services and resources offered by GDS, and receive feedback on their own design patterns, ideas and approaches. Please see the DTAF Terms of Reference for more information.
Contact us directly. For any enquiries or feedback related to this website or the draft resources, please email the Data Architecture team:
- Max Greenwood, Data Sharing Principles Lead [maxwell.greenwood@dsit.gov.uk]
- Ana Santiago, Data Sharing Capability Model Lead [ana.santiago@dsit.gov.uk]
The demo site repository for Future Data Architecure can be accessed here.