I put together this short video to express the biggest problem I’ve encountered when implementing data governance… misalignment. If no one knows about your data governance policy, it doesn’t exist. 😩 It is, unfortunately, widespread that experts applaud themselves for implementing a policy, yet those who should use it are entirely in the dark.
This is especially common with complex issues such as data management. Implementing concepts like data quality controls, data ownership, data security, and data cataloging is a substantial cultural change, so always: COMMUNICATE, COMMUNICATE, COMMUNICATE!
What's the cause of the communication gap?
Data governance is a complex topic that is extremely difficult to implement. The cause of this usually lies in the subject itself. Usually, it means completely changing company culture. Not only that, but the change is nearly always perceived as unpleasant. It involves a significant increase in the time people will have to spend with data before it can even be used for digital tools.
Data owners must suddenly ensure data quality. Yet their core job is usually completely different, and they don’t understand why they should take on this new task. (Ever asked a salesperson to correct 100 lines of data because they input it incorrectly?)Â So when the official communication comes out that a policy is in place that defines new processes and responsibilities, people will conveniently overlook it. This is often very understandable since we live in a world where overwork and high-stress jobs are common. Not wanting to take the time perceived as extra work with no additional value is reasonable.
How do you avoid the communication gap for a new data governance policy?
As I mentioned, if no one knows about your data governance policy, it doesn’t exist, so a solution to this problem must be found. The communication should be regular, not only when something is rolled out. That is communication through as many channels as possible.
Use the standard communication channels for announcing the new policy (such as email) but don’t leave it at that.
Alternative communication channels are essential. For example:
- Meet with affected people to make sure they understand the need for data governance
- Check regularly to make sure affected people are doing the job
- Communicate the importance over other channels, such as company newsletters, management meetings or intranet
- Advertise any improvements made thanks to data governance policies
- Review the policy regularly to make sure that it is still valid
These will help assure that attention to data governance is constant, and controls of people’s actions are regular.
Data governance is essential but complicated. The key to success is taking the time to ensure that all stakeholders see the value!
Check out this article for more on data governance: Analyze your digital readiness and discover its power – Leaders of Digital Change (leaders-of-digital-change.com)
