How to build scalability into the design and implementation of an enterprise data framework

Abstract

This paper begins by discussing the need to actively manage data as a valuable enterprise asset. It explores what an enterprise data framework (EDF) looks like, before identifying the elements that are key to creating scalability. These are: 1) speaking the language of the executive and gaining longterm investment and continued support; and 2) designing-in scalability through understanding the landscape, hooking into existing practices, ensuring the right data ownership, roles and responsibilities, avoiding the fool’s path by designing-in flexibility, and having strong triage processes. The paper then acknowledges that scalability is only possible through successful adoption of the framework. The paper finishes by examining who leads the implementation and what a successful chief data officer (CDO) looks like, how the creation of a movement is essential and how key culture is. It concludes that implementing an EDF into a live commercial environment is a matter of iterations and that moving through the maturity curve requires adaptability and resilience by not just the framework but also the CDO and the data function. Three guiding principles are identified: 1) relevance; 2) impact; and 3) being a good ancestor.