The Human Side of Data Governance: Building a Culture of Accountability
When most people hear "data governance," they immediately think of policies, processes, or technology. But let’s be real—none of that works without people. The truth is that the success of any data governance program relies on the individuals responsible for managing and using data every day. Without a culture of accountability, even the most well-designed frameworks are bound to fail.
So, what does that look like? A culture of accountability means everyone—regardless of their role—understands the value of data, their responsibility, and the risks of mishandling it. It’s about creating an environment where data isn’t just an abstract concept but a strategic asset everyone feels invested in.
The Challenges We Face
Building this kind of culture isn’t easy. There are a few big obstacles:
Awareness Gap: Many employees don’t know what data governance means or how it applies to their role.
Resistance to Change: People can be stuck in their ways, especially in organizations that rely on legacy processes.
Siloed Teams: Departments working in isolation lead to inconsistent practices and missed opportunities for collaboration.
How to Build a Culture of Accountability
Here’s what I’ve seen work when it comes to fostering accountability:
Educate and Empower Your Team
Data governance isn’t just an IT issue—it’s everyone’s job. Start by ensuring employees understand data governance and why it matters to the company and their work. Show them how their roles connect to the bigger picture.
For example: See below for two examples of data governance failures that resulted in lost revenue and impacted the ability to produce products.
Set the Tone at the Top
Leadership sets the standard. If leaders don’t prioritize data governance, no one else will, either. This means walking the talk—leaders need to model good data practices and ensure the necessary resources are in place to support the program.
Pro Tip: Consider creating a cross-departmental data governance committee. It’s a great way to make sure every part of the business is represented and aligned.
Break Down Silos
Collaboration is key. Encourage teams to share insights and flag data challenges early. When teams work together, you get better data and a stronger sense of shared responsibility.
Idea: Host quarterly "data huddles" where teams can discuss governance efforts, address challenges, and celebrate wins.
Make Compliance Easier
Let’s face it: if compliance feels like a chore, people won’t do it. Invest in tools and processes that make it easy for employees to follow data governance policies without overcomplicating their work.
For instance: Automated tools for data classification can remove the manual burden and reduce errors.
Recognize and Reward Good Behavior
People respond to recognition. Make it a point to celebrate employees who demonstrate strong data stewardship. It could be a shoutout in a team meeting or even a formal incentive program.
Idea: Consider starting a “Data Champion” award to highlight individuals or teams that have made a big impact on governance efforts.
Examples of Deficient Governance Practices
Data governance issues can lead to serious consequences, both in terms of regulatory compliance and trust. Take the 2017 Equifax breach, for example—sensitive information for 147 million people was compromised because the company failed to patch a known vulnerability. That’s a clear case of weak governance over IT systems. XYZ Pharma (a French pharmaceutical company) received a Form 483 for data integrity issues in the pharmaceutical world at its manufacturing plant. The FDA flagged incomplete lab records and inadequate controls over computerized systems, which are basic but critical compliance elements. These examples show how lapses in governance—whether in IT or pharma—can have far-reaching impacts.
Why This Matters
When people feel ownership of and accountability for data governance, the whole program improves. There are fewer risks, better decision-making, and a stronger reputation with customers and regulators.
It’s not just about rules and systems—it’s about the people behind them. Technology can enforce rules, but the human element truly makes data governance work.
What’s your approach to building accountability in your data governance efforts? I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below and let’s share ideas!
Sources
Federal Trade Commission. (2019, July 22). Equifax to pay $575 million as part of settlement with FTC, CFPB, and states related to 2017 data breach. Retrieved from https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2019/07/equifax-pay-575-million-part-settlement-ftc-cfpb-states-related-2017-data-breach
Royed Training. (n.d.). Case analysis: 483 observations and data integrity issues in a pharmaceutical finished dosage formulation plant. Retrieved from https://royed.in/case-analysis-483-observations-data-integrity-issues-in-a-pharmaceutical-finished-dosage-formulation-plant/