Newsletter - July 2025

Dear Data People

This month, we’re delighted to announce that we are sponsoring the IRM – Data & AI Conference this October, where the winners of the 2025 DAMA UK Data Management Practitioner Awards will be revealed! These awards recognise outstanding individuals and teams in the UK and Europe who have delivered real value through data initiatives. The lucky winners will receive a trophy, a signed DMBOK V2 (Revised Edition), a feature across DAMA UK platforms, a webinar slot, and a one-day conference pass. 

Nominations are now open for the October 14th event, so be sure to submit yours here. 

Find out more about the event at https://irmuk.co.uk/data-ai-conference-2025/.

Why Every AI Project Eventually Becomes a Data Governance Project

"Every AI initiative I’ve seen at some point hits the same wall. And every time, it turns into a data governance project."

John Wernfeldt provides a very frank breakdown of what so often happens with AI implementation! As he states, the excitement around AI tends to arrive first, followed quickly by the questions that live a little further under the surface...

💭 Who owns the data? What does this field really mean? Why doesn’t this report match the others?

And John is often correct in that when the questions start accumulating, that's usually when the AI conversation quietly turns into a data governance one.

But while it may feel like a detour, it can actually be a valuable progression.

AI tends to surface the governance conversations we’ve been meaning to have about ownership, definitions, consistency, quality... And that’s no bad thing!

Find out more..

Are You Really Getting Better at Data? Here’s How to Tell

Is your organisation truly leveraging data to its full potential? 🤔

Data maturity isn't just about collecting information; it's about turning raw data into actionable insights for strategic decisions and long-term growth. Many businesses start with fragmented data use but need to evolve towards an integrated, evidence-based approach. This journey isn't just about technology; it requires cultural shifts, leadership commitment, and continuous refinement.

Are you still relying on instinct, or are you moving toward strategies built on measurable evidence? Our recent article explores this in detail and is well worth a read. In the meantime, here are a couple of the key takeaways.

Curious...

The 4 Layers You Need to Know About Building Clearer Data Lineage

That would be 4, according to Olga Maydanchik! 

Olga brilliantly shares her suggested breakdown of the four layers of data lineage, which are…

1️⃣ The physical layer 
2️⃣ The semantic layer 
3️⃣ The business layer 
4️⃣ The operational lineage layer 

💡Splitting it up in this way is great for developing a well-needed, crystal clear understanding of all aspects of data lineage functionality.

Read more...

The Data Ownership Dilemma

And another great piece from our friend, John Wernfeldt!

When data quality is positioned in the organisation as everyone’s responsibility, it ends up being no one’s job.🤯

What a mindset-changing notion. John’s point is a fantastic reminder that effective data governance requires giving people clarity and the space to engage with imperfect data without fear of blame.👏

The Role of AI in Decision-Making

Despite its recent surge in popularity and development, AI has been in the works for nearly a century! 

You can find a detailed account of AI’s history in Quantexa’s recently released report, ‘The Role of AI in Decision-Making: A Business Leader’s Guide’. It’s a great resource for highlighting the key milestones that brought us to today’s capabilities.

And it’s incredibly interesting to note how every AI breakthrough from the timeline has come down to one thing… how we use data.

For anyone with limited time, follow our bite-sized series on the topic on LinkedIn!

Curious

The International Data Maturity Benchmark returns for its second edition with a brand new framework, an improved questionnaire, and new guidelines to better capture how organisations are evolving in their Data Management journey.

📈 Last year, over 100 professionals from different sectors and countries took part. Now it’s your turn (again, or for the first time) to assess your organisation's current data capabilities.

🔍 Why participate?
 • Get a personalised report highlighting your strengths and areas for improvement
 • Contribute to an international analysis offering fresh insights into Data Management practices across the EMEA region
 • Explore the updated model, based on the latest trends and needs in data strategy

🕒 It only takes 15–20 minutes, and your input will help shape a global view on data maturity.

Take the assessment here

IRM Conference - September 15-17

📢 Calling all Business Analysts!

Join us at the Business Analysis Conference Europe, hosted by IRM UK -  London from 15 – 17 September 2025.

This year’s conference provides a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends in business analysis, organisational change, and technology innovation; offering unparalleled insights into the methodologies, frameworks, and strategies shaping the future of organisations.

And, with new technologies driving the pace, all businesses need to become more agile and adaptive.

This conference is the ultimate event for professionals, innovators, and leaders seeking to redefine strategies and drive real-world impact.

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge!

Learn more - click here

Members Only Webinar

8 August 2025

📢 What’s Next for Data Careers? Members Only Webinar
 
Join Mark Townsend (KDR Talent Solutions) and Sarah Higham (DAMA UK) for a dynamic webinar exploring how the data job market is evolving, from traditional governance roles to the rise of generative AI. Discover current hiring trends, in-demand skills, and how to future-proof your career or team. Backed by real-world insights and survey data from top data leaders, this session also dives into how frameworks like DAMA’s are adapting to meet the moment.

💡With 15+ years in data recruitment, Mark brings deep industry expertise and practical hiring advice you won’t want to miss.

Login in and register here

Did you Miss…

Any of our recent webinars?

Each of our webinars addresses a specific aspect of data management or the challenges and opportunities facing us data practitioners. They’re hugely popular and valuable so, if you didn’t catch them all,  why not take a look at our fantastic archive here DAMA UK - Past Public Events