This paper explores the potential of Google’s search volume index (SVI)-a frequency of online search query submissions-to help narrow information gaps in LIDCs. A sensor technology generates usage statistics to improve performance of water pumps in Kenya and Ethiopia ( Thomas and others, 2018, Table B.1). In Kenya, researchers analyze mobile phone call records to help combat malaria more effectively ( Wesolowski and others, 2012). 2 Satellite imagery data, such as nighttime lights, are used to measure economic growth and poverty in countries and sub-regions where data are scarce ( Henderson, Storeygard, and Weil, 2012 Jean and others, 2016 Engstrom, Hersh, and Newhouse, 2017).

Nontraditional data sources-so-called big data-have proven to be useful in providing operationally valuable information in LIDCs.

The lack of reliable and timely information hampers real-time assessment of economic conditions and restricts the ability to set sound policies. 1 A survey of the IMF staff indicates severer deficiencies in data quality and availability for low-income countries ( Independent Evaluation Office, 2016 Figure 2). For example, as of July 2018, official FDI data for 2017 are available only for less than half of LIDCs, compared to 90 percent for advanced economies. LIDCs have more missing data and longer time lags in data release than more developed economies. Timely data availability in low-income developing countries (LIDCs) is a long-standing challenge to researchers and policy makers.

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