The Data Governance Journey in Practice: Insights from Case Study Research

Abstract

This paper examines case study research exploring the operationalization of organizational Data Governance (DG) programmes. In total, 20 case studies are coded using an inductive open coding approach. Following an analysis of practitioner experiences in these case studies a series of DG practice insights emerge. They reveal that DG theory does not resonate with practitioners, and the management of people and their data behaviors have the most influence on DG programme outcomes. Our findings provide a better understanding of DG programmes ‘on the ground’. We also develop a DG readiness primer to guide practitioners on their future DG programme journeys.