It's time to become our own Data Managers

A couple of days ago, I participated in a panel discussion at a Data Manager conference. I understood the source of the invitation (as I manage a large EU program that provides data-based advice through a data platform). However, I then wondered how a civil engineer, who has worked in the biomedical, geomechanics, and geoscience fields, ended up on such a panel.

After marking eras with materials - stone, bronze, iron, and now plastic - it's time to define our current epoch as the Data Age?

In this age of information, our lives are intricately woven into the fabric of data. From the moment we wake up and check our smartphones to the moment we listen to a podcast, read the news, drive our cars or the late-night scrolling through social media, every action, decision, and interaction generates a digital footprint. In the background, a vast array of organizations, ranging from tech giants to local businesses, are utilizing this data to gain insights into our behaviors and preferences.

Data is not just a byproduct: it's a currency that shapes the way businesses operate and decisions are made.

Or, as Kitchin defined it, data are "the raw materials produced by abstracting the world into categories, measures and other representational forms – numbers, characters, symbols, images, sounds, electromagnetic waves, bits – that constitute the building blocks from which information and knowledge are created”

As we navigate this landscape, it becomes increasingly evident that being data-literate is no longer a skill reserved for data scientists or analysts. We, literally all of us, need to become our own data managers, understanding how our data is used and ensuring that we have a level of control and awareness in this data-driven world.

The Need for Data Literacy

Data literacy is not just about understanding graphs and statistics: it's about comprehending the broader implications of data collection and analysis. As individuals, being data-literate empowers us to make informed decisions about our online presence, privacy settings, and the products and services we choose to engage with.

One key aspect of data literacy is understanding the value exchange that occurs when we share our data with organizations. Companies collect data to improve their products, target advertisements, and enhance user experiences. In return, we gain access to personalized recommendations, tailored services, and, in some cases, free platforms. However, this exchange should be transparent and consensual, with individuals having the right to control what information they share and how it is used.

The Essential Need for Understanding the Basics of Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML)

Acquiring basic knowledge about big data, AI, and ML is not just something for nerds. It's about being an informed and empowered citizen in an incredibly fast evolving digital landscape.

1. Everyday Relevance: Big data, AI, and ML already play integral roles in our daily lives, from personalized recommendations on streaming services to the algorithms shaping our social media feeds.
2. Informed Decision-Making: basic knowledge empowers people to make informed choices, whether it's about the products and services they use or understanding the societal impact of data-driven decision-making.
3. Career Opportunities: basic knowledge also opens up opportunities in a variety of fields. Many industries are incorporating these technologies, and having a foundational understanding can enhance employability.
4. Privacy and Security: awareness of big data and AI helps individuals comprehend the privacy and security risks associated with the collection and analysis of data.
5. Critical Thinking Skills: knowledge encourages individuals to question the information presented to them, evaluate the algorithms shaping their online experiences, and discern between reliable and biased sources of information.
6. Participation in Digital Society: it enables individuals to actively engage in discussions about the societal impact of these technologies, contributing to informed public discourse.
7. Ethical Considerations: with great technological advancements come ethical considerations. Understanding the basics of big data, AI, and ML equips individuals to participate in conversations about the ethical use of technology, advocating for responsible and transparent practices in the development and deployment of these systems.

Becoming Your Own Data Manager

As we embrace the data era, each of us has the potential to become an empowered data citizen. By taking control of our data and understanding the dynamics of the digital landscape, we can navigate the complexities of the data-driven world with confidence.

Moreover, the benefits of data literacy extend beyond personal empowerment. In workplaces, being data-literate is increasingly becoming a valuable skill. It enables all different kind of professionals to contribute meaningfully to discussions about data-driven strategies, promotes informed decision-making, and fosters a culture of accountability and transparency.

By becoming our own data managers, we not only safeguard our privacy but also actively participate in shaping the ethical use of data in society.