Effective data utilization: Where does your company stand?

Efficient data transformation begins with understanding your company’s current level of data utilization. At valantic, we categorize companies into four distinct levels, providing you with a comprehensive overview and a clear roadmap for your future data utilization.

Taking stock: the first step to effective data utilization

From data novice to data master: Evaluating your current control levels – such as data strategy, information governance, and system architecture – is essential for successful data transformation.

Four stages of data utilization within a company

From data novice to data master

To assess your current data utilization, we thoroughly evaluate each control level. By analyzing the specific characteristics of these levels, we can gauge the level of data utilization – a vital insight for planning your data transformation.

• Data novice
• Data apprentice
• Data journeyman
• Data master

Utilization level one: Data novice

Does your company view data in isolated silos, struggling to access it after the fact? If so, your company might be a data novice.

• Data strategy: Data is considered more of a nuisance than a valuable resource.
• Information governance: There are no defined roles or responsibilities for managing data.
• System architecture: Data is handled separately within decentralized systems, often resembling “departmental Excel sheets”.

Utilization level two: Data apprentice

Does your company use data selectively to support business operations? If so, you’re likely a data apprentice.

• Data strategy: The value of data is recognized and applied selectively.
• Information governance: Specific responsibilities for data management are in place. Data quality is standardized, and there is some level of data transparency.
• System architecture: An integrated data warehouse exists, with active architecture management guided by established protocols.

Utilization level three: Data journeyman

Does your company actively manage data and regularly uncover valuable insights? If so, you’re probably a data journeyman.

• Data strategy: Data is systematically developed, driving optimized outcomes.
• Information governance: Data responsibility is enforced organization-wide, with metadata management ensuring high transparency.
• System architecture: Big data structures are in place, supported by automated system architecture management.

Utilization level four: Data master

Is your data fully automated and readily available for business use on-demand? If so, you’ve reached the pinnacle of data utilization: You’re a data master!

• Data strategy: Data serves as a core driver of business success.
• Information governance: Data responsibility is upheld across the entire organization, with real-time data transparency achieved through automated metadata management.
• System architecture: A continuously dynamic, demand-driven architecture is in place, ensuring seamless access to data.

Interested in discussing data thinking?

We’ve found that data initiatives can notably enhance your company’s level of data utilization. With our guidance, you can transition from a data novice to a data master!

Laurenz Kirchner

Partner & Managing Director

Division Digital Analytics & Strategy

Sebastian Reiss

Principal