Data License

Owned by FIS (Unlicensed)
Aug 28, 2017
2 min read

License types for CODs


It is critical to identify the type of sharing that can occur with a dataset prior to deciding that it will be a COD. If the dataset cannot be shared at all it should not be identified as a COD as this impedes it from becoming a common reference. There are various types of licenses available and efforts should be made to make data as open as possible when negotiating with data sources but there are options available if this is not possible.  Below is a list of license types available for all CODs on HDX. 


 Level of Access License Link
(visibility on HDX)		 Description
 Public  HDX Licenses

 (Public)		 - Best option is to make data available, always try to negotiate an open license
 - Many different HDX licenses are available. 
 - The licenses are used for data that can be made public and can be used for commercial purposes (including allowing OSM to absorb the data). 
 - The most commonly used in the humanitarian context is "Creative Commons Attribution for Intergovernmental Organisations (CC BY-IGO)"
 Somewhat  public "Other" from HDX license list

 (Public)		 - Good option when data source is concerned about data being used for commercial purposes or has concerns about the data
 - States that data is for humanitarian use only and does not make any warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the dataset.
 Public at 
on-set of an emergency		 "Other" from HDX license list

 (Private --> Public)		 - Good option when data source will only share data when a disaster strikes
 - Negotiate to post the data privately on HDX so only OCHA/Data Guardian can see it. By posting it as a preparedness activity when something does occur data can be shared instantly and there is no concern about internet connection or access to datasets to upload, etc.
 Private only 
for  UN/specific organizations		 "Other" from HDX and identify specific agreement

 (Private)		 - When data source will only share data with UN agencies (or specific organizations)
 - A specific agreement should be made with the data source 
  - Speak with HDX to find out more
 Private only 
for  UN/specific organizations 		"Other" from HDX and identify specific agreement

  (Not on HDX)		 - When data source will only share data with UN agencies (or specific organizations)
 - A specific agreement should be made with the data source 
 - Think carefully about the location of the data to ensure it is safe and protected