Today’s federal government is now fully data driven. Some of the biggest data-related trends that –shaped not only this year, but will continue to be influential in 2021 — include building a culture of data literacy within the agency, identifying data-driven leaders, and understanding the significance of using an offensive data strategy to meet the mission. How will these trends shape 2021?
To learn more about these trends, continue reading below.
TREND #1: THE NEED FOR A CULTURE OF DATA LITERACY
Federal agencies know that data is fundamentally important to meeting their mission. However, in order for agencies to use data in a way that benefits them, each individual agency must be rooted in a culture of data literacy. “In recognizing data as a strategic asset, a culture of data literacy is essential for federal agencies. There are several strategies that can be implemented to cultivate this change. Once data literacy is woven into the fabric of an agency, executives and even entry level employees are better able to fulfil their mission of delivering services to citizens.”
Learn more about how to cultivate a culture of data literacy here.
TREND #2: THE IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYING DATA-DRIVEN LEADERS
Creating a culture of data literacy starts with the right leadership and governance. “Most agencies, like the CDC, are already implementing data-driven initiatives,” explained Andrew Churchill, vice president of federal sales for Qlik, a company specializing in data integration and analytics. “However, what many agencies lack is a culture of data literacy, starting with agency executives and trickling down to entry-level employees. Creating that culture is one of the most important responsibilities of a CDO.”
Learn more about data-driven leadership here.
TREND #3: THE SIGNIFICANCE OF USING AN OFFENSIVE DATA STRATEGY
There are a multitude of challenges agencies face when it comes to deciding how to govern a data-driven agency. The best way to overcome these challenges and deliver on the mission? Agencies must be prepared to move from a defensive to an offensive data strategy. “The role of a CDO, especially in the public sector, is a challenging one. Between maneuvering a regulatory environment and working to create a cultural shift –prioritizing data literacy – throughout the entire federal government, there’s a lot to be done. However, these goals are entirely attainable, and they start with shifting the focus from using data defensively to offensively.”
Learn more about deploying an offensive data strategy here.
To keep up with industry trends, click here.
