There’s a lot of data out there, and without a strong business data strategy, your organization will have a tough time putting it all to use.
Today’s businesses run on data. But it’s not enough to collect it and forget about it. If you want to make actionable, sustainable improvements based on the data you gather, it’s imperative that you have a plan for how to do it. Because the better your business data strategy, the better you can use data to lower costs, increase productivity, and enhance your customers’ user experience.
So, where do you start? Here’s what to know about building a successful data strategy for your business, including the benefits you’ll gain from doing it right.
What is Data Strategy All About?
A data strategy is a coordinated plan for how your business will take action on the data you collect.
All businesses gather a hefty amount of data, but they don’t all process it in the most efficient ways. Designing a data analytics strategy is a way to ensure you get the most value out of the information you collect, and covers everything from the types of data you need to be tracking to the tools you’ll use to do it. It also sets out rules and best practices for data access, compliance, and security, as well as the designated steps you’ll take to pull out key insights.
It’s a tall order, but it’s worth the effort—especially when it comes to ensuring you get the biggest bang for your buck out of your analytics platforms.
Elements of a Good Data Strategy
All business data strategies aren’t created equal. As you set out to design your data strategy, these are the elements that you’ll want to be sure to include.
-
Well-Defined Goals
What are your primary goals for your data? Think both short- and long-term, and try to be specific. For example, if your larger goal is to drive growth, think of how your data could be used to increase traffic and conversions, then position those goals at the center of your strategy.
-
Controlled access
It’s simply not the case that everyone needs access to every data piece. Be purposeful in deciding who has access to what, particularly in regards to data input and preparation.
-
Data Defense
A lot of data management focuses on how data can be used to establish and further an organization’s KPIs. And while that’s great, it’s not the whole picture. Your strategy also needs to account for the less glamorous aspects like data compliance and security since, without those in place, your plan isn’t reaching its full potential.
Organize Business Data and Get More Benefits
A data strategy can help you make sense of what might otherwise be overwhelming and complicated. And not only does it give you a roadmap for how to process your data, but it also helps guarantee that you can make improvements based on what you gather.
Your business is collecting tons of data regardless of whether you prioritize it or not. Rather than letting it go to waste, organize, strategize, and take as much value out of your data as possible. It’s good business and a must if you continue competing in such a data-heavy climate.
Need some guidance? Learn about EDOM Solutions and contact us for a consultation to learn how to put your data to use. Our team is ready to go with strategic solutions and can help you get up and running with your business data strategy.
