I have architected and implemented DG solutions for Consumer Package Goods, Banking, Insurance and Energy organizations. I’ve led projects though all phases of the pre-sales, implementation and deployment processes.

A simple definition of DG:

Data Governance is the combined effort of people, processes, and technology that enables data to be leveraged as an enterprise asset. Data Governance includes policies, procedures, organization, roles, and responsibilities, with associated communication and training are required to design, develop, and support the DG effort. Ownership and Data Stewardship are the key ingredients here, someone has to own the data and the data has to be maintained and monitored.

DG tools (software):

If you have data management tools, you do not need to buy anything else. Data Governance is mostly communication! Most marketed DG tools are data quality tools that you have most likely already purchased for you data warehouse.

Prerequisites for DG:

Realize data as a corporate asset that must be defined and managed at the enterprise level.

Establish and educate a governing body or council for DG. Folks, this has to come from the top down!

Identify and educate personnel for key roles (such as Data Stewards, Data Specialists, Business Approvers, etc.). Yes, you have to assign roles to people and educate them!

Begin socialization of Data Governance activities your organization. Workshops are best for this. Bring door prizes J

Develop organizational understanding and belief in the value of data governance. DG just works better if the point is clear and not just another initiative.

Create common definitions, business rules and requirements, standards, reference architectures and processes and supporting policies for data governance. Hmm, sort of MDM-ish?

Enforce corporate policies regarding the acquisition, creation, management, and usage of data. You only want one version of the truth!

Identify resources to aid individuals and the organization in the adoption of these standards, policies and procedures. Consultants with my experience can be a big help. You do not need to hire a stable of consultants to launch a DG program!

Establish and monitor KPIs for your data governance program.

Feel free to reach out to me if you need any help.

A good consultant will leave the client independent, not dependent.

  Contact Information:

Email: steve@stevewilletts.com