How do you show the value of data ownership?

1 Define data ownership roles

One of the first steps to show the value of data ownership is to define and assign clear roles and responsibilities for data owners, stewards, and users. Data owners are typically senior managers or business leaders who have the authority and accountability for the data within their domain. Data stewards are data professionals who support the data owners in managing and maintaining the data quality, standards, policies, and processes. Data users are the end-users who access and consume the data for various purposes, such as analysis, reporting, or decision making. By defining these roles, you can establish a clear governance structure and accountability framework for your data assets.

3 Measure and report data ownership performance

A third way to show the value of data ownership is to measure and report its performance and impact. Data ownership is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process that requires monitoring, evaluation, and improvement. By setting and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics for data ownership, such as data quality, availability, usability, or compliance, you can show the progress and results of your data governance efforts. You can also use dashboards, reports, or stories to communicate and visualize the value of data ownership to your stakeholders, such as senior management, business units, or external parties.

4 Promote data ownership culture

A fourth way to show the value of data ownership is to promote a culture of data ownership across your organization. Data ownership is not only a technical or managerial issue, but also a behavioral and cultural one. It requires a shared understanding and commitment to the principles and practices of data governance among all data stakeholders. By providing training, education, awareness, and recognition programs for data owners, stewards, and users, you can foster a culture of data ownership that values, respects, and leverages data as a strategic asset.

5 Engage and collaborate with data stakeholders

A fifth way to show the value of data ownership is to engage and collaborate with your data stakeholders, both internally and externally. Data ownership is not a siloed or isolated function, but a collaborative and cross-functional one. It involves working with other data owners, stewards, and users to ensure the alignment, consistency, and integration of data across your organization. It also involves working with external parties, such as customers, suppliers, regulators, or partners, to ensure the compliance, security, and privacy of data across your data ecosystem. By engaging and collaborating with your data stakeholders, you can build trust, transparency, and accountability for your data assets.

7 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?