CBS: Building Israel’s National Data Lake
Overview
The Israel Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) is the national authority responsible for collecting, managing, and publishing official statistical data. To strengthen data-based research, planning, and policymaking, CBS launched a multi-year National Data Lake Program aimed at modernizing data access, improving research workflows, and enabling secure, large-scale use of statistical data.
Matrix DnA was selected as the strategic partner to design and implement the program.
The Challenge
CBS manages large volumes of complex data originating from multiple sources and systems.
Prior to the program, access to sensitive datasets required physical presence at designated research facilities, limiting availability, extending research timelines, and increasing operational overhead.
CBS sought to:
- Modernize access to statistical data while maintaining strict security and privacy standards
- Enable remote, scalable research capabilities
- Improve transparency and management of research requests
- Establish a long-term foundation for a national data infrastructure
The Solution
Matrix DnA worked with CBS to implement a phased program that modernized research access and operational processes, while preparing the organization for a broader national data platform.
Phase 1 – Secure Remote Access for Researchers
Matrix DnA delivered a secure remote research environment that enables authorized researchers to access CBS datasets on an ongoing basis. Beyond removing the need for physical access to CBS research facilities, the solution opened new possibilities for continuous, nationwide research while fully adhering to regulatory, security, and privacy requirements.
Phase 2 – Research Management and Support Platform
To support increased research demand, Matrix DnA implemented a Microsoft Dynamics–based CRM system that standardizes the management of research activities and strengthens collaboration between CBS and the research community.
The platform supports:
- Research project lifecycle management and approvals
- Status tracking and structured communication
- Centralized researcher support services
This layer established a stable and efficient operational framework, enabling CBS to scale research services in a controlled and transparent manner.
Phase 3 – Online Research Portal (2024)
In 2024, Matrix DnA launched an online research portal that enables digital submission and tracking of research requests.
The portal simplifies engagement for researchers and reflects a broader shift toward accessible, digital-first public-sector services.
Looking Ahead — Building Israel’s National Data Lake
As of 2024, Matrix DnA continues to advance the program toward a full-scale National Data Lake. The architecture is designed to support:
- Core CBS operational processes
- Cross-agency data exchange
- Secure and intuitive access to public-sector data for researchers and institutions
This ongoing, multi-year program is laying the foundation for a national data infrastructure that not only supports current research needs, but also enables future collaboration, insight generation, and data-driven public-sector decision-making.
Impact
The program has delivered clear operational and research outcomes:
- Hundreds of active research projects supported through a secure, centralized platform
- More than 400 researchers working continuously with CBS data
- Shorter research cycles enabled by remote access and digital workflows
- Greater transparency and consistency in the management of research activity
Beyond operational improvements, the platform strengthens the use of official statistics in economic, social, and policy research, supporting data-driven decision-making at a national level.
Why Matrix DnA
Matrix DnA led the design and implementation of the program end-to-end, combining expertise in:
- Secure data platforms for the public sector
- Large-scale, multi-year program delivery
- Research-oriented data access models
- Compliance, governance, and operational integration
The collaboration enabled CBS to modernize its research infrastructure while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Summary
The CBS National Data Lake Program is a long-term transformation initiative focused on improving access to high-quality statistical data. Through its collaboration with Matrix DnA, CBS has built a modern, secure research environment that supports national research, policy development, and public-sector innovation.