Defining “Applied Governance” (Data Governance Term)
When companies spend money on data-related technologies, the goal is clear: to harness data's power for better decision-making, best their competition, keep customers happy and loyal and support compliance demands.
At First San Francisco Partners (FSFP), our highly knowledgeable and experienced data consultants use “applied governance” to describe the technologies and systems companies use to manage and govern data. More broadly, they say that when companies apply their people, processes and technology to governance, that's where data governance does its magic.
However, for some — both inside and outside the sphere of governance and data management — the applied governance phrase might feel abstract or confusing. It did to me initially.
The Challenge with “Applied Governance”
As a long-time marketing consultant for FSFP, I’ve spent almost a decade helping the firm translate the sometimes complex data concepts and industry terms into relatable language, primarily on the company's blog. I've written or edited hundreds of content pieces; being able to explain what we do in layman's terms, whenever possible, is my thing. (I often think about an industry newbie who might get tripped up on the assorted acronyms, abbreviations and industry jargon we use.)
While applied governance can convey the idea of data governance in action through supporting technologies, the term gains more meaning when it's connected to data problems like these:
- “How can we make sure the data that powers our AI is accurate and available?”
- “How can we prove our data complies with HIPAA requirements (or fill-in-the-blank industry regulation)?”
- “What data governance software should we upgrade to for our company data?"
- “How can technology help us streamline data management while reinforcing our governance policies that people don't always follow?"
- "How can we get reports from the XYZ department to match the information of the ABC department?"
When communicating with the business side of a company or the business' counterparts in IT, we connect our terms and solutions to our client’s most pressing concerns about their data.
Alternative Ways to Describe “Applied Governance”
If "applied governance" doesn't resonate or could be more specific, these alternative phrases — simple yet descriptive — could:
- Data governance technologies: This straightforward term ties governance to technology. (Best for audiences who respond well to direct, unambiguous language and when the focus is on the tools themselves.)
- Integrated data management solutions: This phrase speaks to the comprehensive nature of governance, highlighting how various data management components work together. (Useful when emphasizing the holistic and interconnected aspects of managing data.)
- Governance automation tools: This option highlights the crucial role of automation in making data governance principles consistently and efficiently applied. (Ideal when discussing efficiency gains and the scaling of governance practices.)
- Data governance in action: This focuses on the practical, day-to-day business-as-usual activities that support and embody governance. (Helpful when you want to emphasize the ongoing, operational aspect of governance rather than just the initial setup or theoretical framework.)
To see an example of how FSFP approaches data governance technology challenges, I recommend reading this three-page PDF, “How to Apply Data Governance.” It recaps a valuable session from last month's DGIQ + EDW event, led by Principal Consultant Gretchen Burnham and Senior Consultant Josh Henderson.
Why Language Matters in the Data Industry
Marketers like me know that how we describe products and solutions dramatically impacts how our messaging is perceived and remembered. The "right" language doesn’t just communicate what a company sells — it shows we understand our audience’s challenges and goals and empathize with their pain points. This is why defining with a term like "applied governance" is important. Ensuring our clients and their stakeholders understand not just the term, but the value and action it represents, is key to successful data initiatives.
At FSFP, our consultants offer data solutions — assessments, strategies/roadmaps, implementation expertise and how to create sustainable practices. The work we do makes people's business lives easier, their information more valuable, and their data-related processes more straightforward to understand and adhere to.
As businesses of all sizes and industries continue to deal with the complexities of a modern data governance program, FSFP remains committed to helping them navigate these challenges. (Or solve their "thorny data problems," as one of our senior consultants, Gretchen Burnham, loves to say.)
Whether we’re talking about applied governance, metadata management or AI enablement, our mission is to empower our clients to manage their data more effectively, efficiently and ethically.
Need an Expert Data Consultant?
If you're looking for experts to help you translate complex data concepts into practical solutions and guide your data governance initiatives or other data-centric work, First San Francisco Partners is here to help. Our team is dedicated to applied governance that delivers meaningful business outcomes. So, when you're ready to get support for your data-dependent needs, get in touch with FSFP.
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