Evidence that companies are passing through the core of digital transformation: The story of conflicts in data governance processes

At the heart of digital transformation lies the digitization of products and services. By connecting traditional analog services and physical products to the internet and web, companies can redefine core customer experiences, overcome periods of stagnation, and unlock opportunities for rapid business growth. However, this growth doesn't appear instantly; it becomes visible only when the data generated from digital processes and products is actively utilized.

Through data, we can determine the direction of our business and create inflection points for growth. Yet, to effectively leverage data, a systematic approach to data governance is necessary, and here lies the conflict between existing business organizations and data teams.

For developers, the priority is developing products and services. The conflict begins with the requirement that developers must also focus on "data". Data adds additional rules to their work, often causing it to be deprioritized. This issue becomes more prominent under the pressure of product/service launch deadlines, leading to conflicts in priorities with organizations aiming to execute digital transformation (usually teams named DX or Data within companies). The conflict arises when developers, under pressure to meet launch schedules, overlook data requirements. Data can only be utilized when it is properly planned, developed, and verified, which requires time and effort, thus it's sometimes skipped in the rush to meet product launch deadlines.

Leadership must make strategic decisions regarding business priorities. Nonetheless, until a company successfully completes its digital transformation and achieves clear business outcomes through digitization, it's crucial to implement mechanisms that ensure minimum commitments to data-related checkpoints in the development schedule are met. There may be times when data requirements need to be temporarily overlooked due to urgent business needs, but it's important to have systems in place to catch up later.

In conclusion, digital transformation is the process through which companies meet new growth curves through the digitization of products and services. This journey is complex, requiring a balance between data governance and development priorities. Through mutual understanding and compromise, we can continue the successful journey of digital transformation.