Data Strategy Is Not an IT Problem
I’ve been thinking long and hard about this, as it’s a subject dear to my heart.
I’ve been grappling with this in my head for a long time and as the industry moves in a certain way, I have to say it:
Data Strategy is Not an IT Problem!
There, I’ve said it!
The trend that I’m seeing and one that we continuously talk about is the CDO or head of data are being lumped under the CIO or CTO or whichever title now runs the IT function.
Let me say it again:
Data is not IT.
It’s not about technology, it’s about business.
When done right, a solid data strategy can:
- Build investor confidence
- Create growth opportunities
- Optimise your cost base
- Improve EBITDA
Isn’t that what most businesses are aiming for?
Yet, in private and PE-backed firms especially, the focus often shifts to cutting costs and reducing headcount.
But the real question should be:
“How can we use data to drive growth, improve services, or enhance products?”
Here’s the challenge for CEOs, CFOs, and COOs:
Stop treating data strategy like a tech problem. Instead, see it as a value driver, a differentiator, and a growth enabler.
IT teams are great at handling technology, but data strategy needs to go beyond that.
It’s about aligning your data with your business goals, using it to make better decisions, deliver value, and grow.
If you’re still treating data strategy as part of IT, you’re missing the point, and the opportunity.
The companies that eventually get this right don’t just survive; they will thrive.
Investors would rather bet on those companies that have a strong data strategy that is aligned to where the business is going and helping it achieve those gains!
What’s stopping you from looking at your data strategy differently?
