Province of Limburg

What is an algorithm?

Algorithms are almost impossible to imagine our lives without. Although we don't always know it, they are constantly being used. For example, by streaming services and social media, when you go shopping online, or while searching with a search engine. But the Province of Limburg also uses algorithms in certain cases.

We use the definition of the Court of Audit (2021): 'Algorithms are sets of rules and instructions that a computer automatically follows when making calculations to solve problems, answer questions, perform tasks or processes, and/or make or support decisions.'

How does an algorithm work?

An algorithm resembles a roadmap. Steps are followed in a certain order to achieve a certain goal or solve a problem. If you have ever assembled a bookcase based on a manual, you have done so algorithmically. It can also be used to make calculations or predictions. You can compare it to preparing a meal. If you cook it yourself, you know exactly what ingredients (data, details) you are using. But if you order dinner in a restaurant, you don't know exactly how it was prepared. It's the same way with an algorithm. Technology with algorithms takes work off your hands and helps make it easier. Sometimes they are very clear decision rules (IF this, THEN that). But with more complicated algorithms, it is not always clear how it arrives at a particular result.

Why does the Province of Limburg use algorithms?

The Province uses algorithm applications to automate tasks and processes and to better substantiate decisions, for example in word processing programmes and calculation models. By using algorithm applications, the Province can work faster and more precisely. With the ultimate goal of doing our work as well as possible for the province, residents and entrepreneurs.

As such, not every algorithm is equally important or dangerous. Ultimately, it depends on how we use the algorithm. An algorithm application says something about how we use data in combination with algorithm(s) and what the results and effects of this use are.

Why an Algorithm Register?

Because it is not always clear how an algorithm arrives at a particular result, we publish our algorithms in the Algorithm Register. The Province of Limburg considers it important to explain why we use algorithms, what data it processes and how it came about. The Algorithm Register contains an overview of the algorithms used by the Province of Limburg, among others. The Province of Limburg is starting with the publication of a few algorithms and will continuously expand it.

The Algorithm Register is available at https://algoritmes.overheid.nl/nl(links to another website)(opens external website).

Comments or questions?

If you have any questions or comments about our algorithms, please send an email to algoritme@prvlimburg.nl. We will get back to you as soon as possible.