Introduction

Technological advancements in data identification, collection, analysis, and utilization represent great promise and great peril for humankind. The intentional and well-considered use of big data can enhance convenience, access, communication, health, and education just as its inattentive and ill-advised use can reinforce existing biases, narrow choice, and undermine privacy. Can big data drive solutions that overcome societal biases and limitations in a manner that solves social problems and unleashes the inherent potential that exists within every single human born on the planet? In the era of big data, the potential inherent in this question becomes even more compelling because for the first time in human history vast amounts of information from disparate sources can be cross-referenced, analyzed, verified, and applied to make correlations, confirm hypotheses, develop algorithms, expand options, generate new possibilities, and offer enduring solutions.

Through its ADELPHI (Advancing Data Equity, Leadership, Policy, Health, and Innovation) Project, the Center for Global Policy Solutions is working to methodically organize a line of inquiry that identifies gaps and leverages big data to produce innovative solutions that address society’s biggest challenges. Specifically, we seek to identify and uplift equity-centered solutions that help drive social innovations in areas such as health, education, economics, and civic engagement. The primary goal of this effort is to move towards a more equitable and just society by optimizing the use and minimizing the abuse of data and technology.

Description of Services Required

The Center for Global Policy Solutions seeks to hire a consultant to facilitate an idea generation and consensus building process intended to result in the development of a major report that explores big data’s potential for driving social innovations. The consultant will work with CGPS to identify and invite leading experts with specialties in areas related to the intersection of technology, civil/human/women’s rights/liberties, and areas such as health, education, finances, and civic engagement. The consultant will co-design and lead implementation of a facilitated consensus building process that results in the development of a framework for inquiry and a pathway for generating further information, discussion, and ideation around each of the points within the established framework. The consultant will work to ensure that participants are provided with relevant information that spurs additional insight about particular issues under consideration. Between meetings, the consultant will facilitate communication and learning of study panel participants through a listserv and emails. The work of the group is expected to inform the development of a written product that encapsulates the sentiments and ideas of the study panel.

Duties and Deliverables

  • Organize a series (4-6) of in person meetings and webinars;
  • Facilitate discussion at the in-person meetings and webinars as necessary;
  • Co-develop agenda for meetings/webinars with client;
  • Lead communication with expert panel of study group participants;
  • Identify and disseminate relevant information to study group participants;
  • Write summaries describing outcomes and action items resulting from each gathering;
  • Facilitate resolution of action items between meetings;
  • Facilitate knowledge gathering, communication and planning between meetings;
  • Co-develop an outline for final report;
  • Help recruit well-known expert writers for final report;
  • Oversee the work of a team of expert writers; and
  • Review and suggest edits for final report.

Qualifications

  • Postgraduate degree in science, social sciences, or other related fields. Current postgraduate students with extensive experience in relevant areas will also be considered.
  • Demonstrated project management experience.
  • A deep understanding of issues related to technology, big data, privacy and civil liberties/civil rights.
  • Some knowledge of innovations in areas of health, education, financial inclusion, and civic education/engagement would be a plus.
  • Ability to meet project deadlines is required.
  • Excellent facilitation, planning, public speaking, writing, and editing skills are required.

Timeline

The project will begin in June 2016 and end by May 2017. The timeline for the completion of the paper is February 2017.

Budget

The fixed-price budget for this project is up to $35,000. No additional benefits or compensation will be provided. Expenses may be reimbursed only with prior written approval.

How to Apply

Email a cover letter, resume, and 3 writing samples to info@globalpolicysolutions.org by June 15.

Include “ADELPHI Project Consultant” in the subject line.

Note: Please include references. If applicable, include references from previous consulting projects.

Selection Criteria

Candidates will be evaluated based on (1) demonstrated project management and facilitation experience and (2) the depth of their knowledge regarding the use of big data and technology to drive equity-centered social innovations. Candidates must also have the capacity to meet tight project deadlines and regularly communicate with CGPS staff to ensure the project and deliverables are completed.