As regulations such as the GDPR are becoming increasingly more prevalent, the importance posed by organisations’ data governance practices have never been higher. Data governance refers to managing vital data throughout the enterprise in order to derive value from it. Effective data governance that delivers productivity requires a collaborative effort between people, policy, process and technology.
Use the following best practises to avoid some of the pitfalls and overcome frequently experienced challenges to implement a successful data governance initiative.
1.Small pieces assemble the big picture
Data governance start with people, follow with process and end with technology. It is crucial to gain managerial support when implementing a data governance scheme and to set out clear roles and define ownership of responsibilities. Engage the right people for these roles, and then define the process accordingly. Use a technology platform such as Alex Solutions as the means to achieve data governance objectives. Perceive data governance as a continuous and repeated process – Start small with pilot projects and bring experience, learnings and expertise from these into the organisation.
2.Win acceptance by building a business case
Winning acceptance and gaining executive buy-in is key to a successful data governance implementation. Present a business case with benefits, opportunities and improvements that would result from an investment in data quality such as efficiency, increased confidence in analytical systems, reduced costs and greater customer experiences. Involve stakeholders during the course of data governance and ensure open and transparent communication to build trust and confidence.
Alex Solutions can effectively support this initiative by creating a Proof of Concept within a 2 to 4-week period that demonstrates the business value generated to all relevant stakeholders within the organisation.
3.Measure progress
Set clear objectives and targets, and use metrics to evaluate progress. Use data to depict successful outcomes. Ensure that the process is tracked consistently to serve as benchmarks and checkpoints along the way to drive progress.
4.Treat data governance as a practise, rather than a project
Data governance is a practise, rather than a project with an end date. It is a significant change that should be intertwined into the organisation’s existing processes and framework. Establish a methodology for documenting organisational best practices and learnings, and use the stakeholders within the company as a key resource to drive the change forward.
To learn in more detail about data governance best practices, or how to specifically implement in your organization; request a free personalized demo below:
