How can you improve your organization's data maturity and benchmark against industry standards?

2 Data governance maturity model

A data governance maturity model is a tool that complements the data maturity model by focusing on the specific aspects of data governance, such as data quality, data security, data ethics, data literacy, or data stewardship. A data governance maturity model can help you evaluate how well you are implementing and adhering to the data governance framework and principles in your organization. For example, the Data Governance Institute (DGI) has developed a Data Governance Maturity Model (DGMM) that assesses six categories of data governance: vision, strategy, and value; governance and program management; data quality management; data policy management; data lifecycle management; and data roles and responsibilities .

3 How to use the models

Using the data maturity model and the data governance maturity model requires several steps. First, you should select models that fit your needs and objectives. You can use existing models or create your own based on your industry, domain, or context. After deciding the scope and scale of the assessment, you need to gather relevant data and information through surveys, interviews, audits, reviews, or metrics. Then, you can score and analyze your results with a scoring system such as numerical, color-coded, or descriptive. Comparing your results with industry benchmarks or best practices is also recommended. Finally, you can identify and prioritize gaps and opportunities with a gap analysis or SWOT analysis and prioritize actions based on impact, urgency, or feasibility of each improvement opportunity.

4 How to improve your data maturity and data governance

Based on your assessment results and gap analysis, you can develop and implement a data maturity and data governance improvement plan. Your plan should include a clear vision and strategy for your data maturity and data governance that is aligned with your organizational goals and values. Additionally, you should create a roadmap and timeline for your initiatives, with specific objectives, milestones, and deliverables. You should also allocate a budget and resources for your activities, with adequate funding, staffing, and tools. To ensure successful implementation of your plan, you should also have a communication and change management plan in place, with effective stakeholder engagement, awareness, and training. Finally, you should create a monitoring and evaluation plan for regular feedback, reporting, and adjustment.

5 How to benefit from your data maturity and data governance

Improving your data maturity and data governance can bring a variety of advantages to your organization. This includes enhanced data quality, accuracy, and reliability, leading to better decision-making and performance. Additionally, increased data security, privacy, and compliance can reduce the risks of data breaches, fines, or reputational damage. Furthermore, improved data ethics, trust, and transparency can foster a positive data culture and responsible data use. Moreover, boosting data literacy, skills, and empowerment allows for a more data-driven and innovative workforce. And finally, optimizing data value, efficiency, and scalability can create a competitive advantage and sustainable data strategy.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?