You’re running a mentorship program in Data Governance. How do you know if it’s working?

2 Choose your metrics

Once you have your goals, you need to decide how you will measure them. Metrics are the indicators that show you how well your program is meeting its objectives and delivering value. There are different types of metrics that you can use, such as quantitative (e.g., number of completed projects, hours of training, satisfaction ratings) or qualitative (e.g., feedback, testimonials, case studies). You should also consider the frequency and method of data collection and analysis. For example, you can use surveys, interviews, focus groups, or observations to gather feedback from your mentors and mentees.

3 Establish your baseline

Before you start your Data Governance mentorship program, you need to have a baseline that shows the current state of your mentees' skills and knowledge. This will help you compare and evaluate their improvement and growth over time. You can use various tools and methods to establish your baseline, such as assessments, tests, quizzes, portfolios, or self-reports. You should also document the expectations and roles of both mentors and mentees, as well as the scope and duration of the program.

4 Monitor your progress

During your Data Governance mentorship program, you need to monitor your progress and check if you are on track to achieve your goals. You can use dashboards, reports, or scorecards to visualize and communicate your metrics and results. You should also solicit and provide regular feedback to your mentors and mentees, as well as identify and address any issues or challenges that may arise. You can use tools such as check-ins, reviews, coaching sessions, or peer support groups to facilitate feedback and learning.

5 Evaluate your outcomes

At the end of your Data Governance mentorship program, you need to evaluate your outcomes and see if you have met or exceeded your goals. You can use the same tools and methods that you used to establish your baseline to measure your mentees' skills and knowledge after the program. You can also compare your results with other benchmarks or best practices in your industry or domain. You should also collect and analyze feedback from your mentors and mentees, as well as other stakeholders, to assess the impact and value of your program.

6 Improve your program

Based on your evaluation, you can identify the strengths and weaknesses of your Data Governance mentorship program and make recommendations for improvement. You can use tools such as SWOT analysis, gap analysis, or root cause analysis to pinpoint the areas of improvement and the potential solutions. You should also celebrate and recognize the achievements and contributions of your mentors and mentees, as well as share your learnings and insights with your organization and community.