# Play two: Map the data ecosystem

This need to collaborate, involve and sometimes influence stakeholders to improve access to data can be made easier by understanding your initiative’s data ecosystem. A[ data ecosystem map](https://theodi.org/article/mapping-data-ecosystems/) can support you devising your initiative’s roadmap to building data infrastructure by showing how the data and value flows, identifying key stakeholders, and highlighting gaps.

<figure><img src="https://242954767-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fpb6xDffhgi9f80ZORaUG%2Fuploads%2FvEQSnU1IeJmSlLcEAIm0%2Fcosystem%20map.png?alt=media&#x26;token=44efac6a-c2b5-4cb1-8795-8caab219c4f1" alt=""><figcaption><p>Data Ecosystem Mapping - Open Data Institute</p></figcaption></figure>

Activities in this step include:

* [Engaging with key stakeholders](https://open-data-institute.gitbook.io/data-landscape-playbook/play-two-map-the-data-ecosystem/list-and-interview-your-stakeholders)
* [Mapping data flows and value exchanges in the ecosystem](https://open-data-institute.gitbook.io/data-landscape-playbook/play-two-map-the-data-ecosystem/create-an-ecosystem-map)
* [Identifying gaps, barriers and opportunities in the data ecosystem that your initiative can address](https://open-data-institute.gitbook.io/data-landscape-playbook/play-two-map-the-data-ecosystem/identify-gaps-barriers-and-opportunities)

By the end of this section you should be able to:

* Understand the key stakeholders to engage
* Have a clear understanding of the data ecosystem
* Define an action plan to tackle your problem statement