The push to adopt AI is forcing a lot of organizations to take a harder look at their data. Leaders want to take advantage of new tools and technologies, but they’re starting to see that their current data isn’t set up for what’s coming next. It’s not just about the quality of the data; it’s also about purpose. Most of the data they’re working with was set up for reporting or compliance, not to support real-time insights and decisions or future growth.

To move forward, there needs to be a shift in focus–from making the most of the data on hand to defining what’s needed to reach tomorrow’s goals. What should be measured? What information actually matters? And how can data show up in ways that support the decisions people are making every day? 

Here’s how to make data work for where your organization is headed.

  • Start with the End in Mind: Define the intended outcomes before digging into data. 
  • Focus on Minimum Viable Data: Measure only the signals that truly inform decisions. 
  • Build Trust: Align metrics with lived experience and standardize definitions. 
  • Lay a Strong Foundation: Establish ownership, repeatable pipelines, and shared language.
  • Evolve Through Iteration: Regularly reassess metrics to keep pace with shifting priorities.

Read the full article over on BigDATAWire.