With the help of sensors on roadways and applications on the phones of drivers, cities all around the world are actively collecting real-time data about traffic patterns. The data is more than just useful for drivers and interesting for city developers, it has the potential to revolutionise the way cities manage their roadways, reduce congestion and develop neighbourhoods. But in order to utilise the data effectively, cities must often first address a gaping disconnection between the value of the data they collect and the resources available to put them to work—starting with strong leadership.