Data over Dinner: Breaking Through Organisational Complexity
Data over Dinner
The 2024 CDO “Data over Dinner: Breaking Through Organisational Complexity” recently invited senior data leaders for an evening of profound insights and collaborative discussions. Hosted in partnership with Imperial College London, the event highlighted the pivotal role of data in modern organisations and explored strategies to navigate the complexities of data-driven transformation.
Jake O’Gorman, Director of Data, Tech and AI strategy at Corndel, shared:
“To truly harness the power of data in today’s complex organisational landscapes, we must cultivate a data-driven culture that permeates every level of the business. This means equipping both our data and non data teams with the right tools and training and fostering an environment where data literacy and its strategic value are deeply understood and embraced by all. The discussions at the 2024 CDO Dinner revealed the critical need for clear communication and continuous development to bridge the gap between data strategy and real-world implementation.”
Keynote insight from Khalil Dimachkie
The evening’s highlight was a keynote address by Khalil Dimachkie, a Strategic Technology Advisor and fractional CTO. Dimachkie, with over 18 years of industry experience, shared his wealth of knowledge on software development, agile methodologies, cloud applications, AI/ML, and mobile technologies. His experience working with global brands such as BP, VISA, TfL, Maserati, and Unilever provided a rich context for his insights.
Dimachkie shared the staggering 1174% growth in data over the past decade, driven by digitisation, cloud computing, social media, mobile devices, and video content. He emphasised the critical role of AI, which thrives on large datasets to deliver its transformative potential and the critical need for human skills such as effective communication and skills development for all layers of an organisation. Dimachkie’s address resonated with attendees, highlighting the opportunities and challenges presented by this data explosion.
Navigating 21st-century data complexity
The dinner featured facilitated discussions led by Corndel, focusing on the critical aspects of harnessing data to drive organisational success. Key talking points included:
- Understanding data layers: Differentiating between operational data, strategic data, and direct data monetisation to inform various types of decision-making processes.
- Overcoming data bias: Lessons from historical missteps such as biometric systems failing under-represented groups and AI models like Microsoft Tay chatbot inheriting human biases.
- Bridging strategy and implementation: Ensuring that data-driven initiatives are supported by effective communication, appropriate training, and strategic clarity across all organisational levels.
The AI revolution
Dimachkie’s address delved into the commodification of AI, which is lowering barriers to entry and creating new business opportunities. AI’s capability to extract insights from data is revolutionising business operations, enabling leaner, more efficient workflows and expanding service reach. However, this shift also demands a heightened focus on data quality and engineering. AI’s effectiveness is directly tied to the data it processes and effective organisational-wide skill development programmes.
The data challenge
One of the most pressing insights from the evening’s discussions was the pervasive challenge of fostering a deep understanding of the importance of data across all levels of an organisation. Despite significant advancements in technology and data strategies, many entry-level employees still struggle to grasp data’s critical role in modern business operations. This lack of understanding, often referred to as the “Why” of data, emerged as a significant hurdle for any organisation striving to transform its data skills.
Attendees highlighted that while senior leadership and data teams may recognise the value of data, the broader workforce often remains disconnected from this perspective. This disconnect can lead to resistance, misunderstandings, and a lack of engagement with data-driven initiatives. To overcome this challenge, organisations must invest in comprehensive education and communication strategies that clearly articulate the benefits and necessity of data at every level.
The discussions highlighted the need for:
- Enhanced data literacy programmes: Tailored training sessions that help employees understand how data impacts their specific roles and contributes to overall business success.
- Clear communication of data’s value: Consistent messaging from leadership that explains the strategic importance of data and how it drives decision-making and innovation.
- Engagement and incentives: Creating a culture where employees are encouraged and rewarded for utilising data in their daily tasks, fostering a sense of ownership and enthusiasm for data-driven practices.
- Governance and support structures: Implementing the right governance structures and ensuring clear communication lines are essential for the success of data-driven initiatives.
- Continuous training and development: Keeping pace with AI advancements requires continuous training and skill development across all organisational levels.
By addressing these challenges head-on, organisations can bridge the gap between data strategy and implementation, ensuring that all employees—not just data specialists—are equipped to contribute to and benefit from a data-centric culture. This holistic approach is crucial for the successful transformation and sustained growth in the data-driven era.
A call to action
The 2024 CDO Dinner served as a call to action for business leaders. In an era where data is fundamentally reshaping industries, there is an urgent need for organisations to reassess and refine their data strategies. Discussions revealed several critical actions leaders can take:
- Assess and improve data literacy programmes: It’s crucial to ensure that all employees, not just data specialists, understand the value and application of data in their roles.
- Equip teams for an AI-enhanced future: Providing the necessary tools and knowledge will enable teams to leverage AI effectively and stay competitive.
- Overcome cultural barriers: Addressing resistance to data-driven practices is essential for fostering a culture that embraces innovation.
The 2024 CDO Dinner gave attendees new insights into how they can drive transformation within their organisations, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of innovation and success.
