Why you should not to hire a CDO (you need a CDAO)

In today's rapidly changing digital landscape, businesses are witnessing a profound shift in the way data is managed and utilised. With technological advancements, the role of a Chief Data Officer (CDO) has become a topic of debate. Some argue that the traditional role of a CDO is fading away, giving rise to new paradigms in data governance and leadership. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the evolving role of the CDO and how organisations are adapting to embrace data-driven strategies.

1.The Emergence of Data Democratisation: In the past, CDOs primarily focused on overseeing data governance, quality, and compliance. However, the democratisation of data has changed the game. Modern organizations are empowering employees at all levels to access and analyse data, blurring the lines of traditional data ownership. With self-service analytics tools and data literacy programs, companies are shifting towards a more distributed model, where data-driven decision-making is encouraged throughout the organisation.

2.The Rise of Data-driven Culture: Data is no longer limited to the realm of technical experts; it has become a strategic asset for all business functions. As a result, organisations are fostering a data-driven culture that extends beyond the responsibilities of a single executive. Business leaders, managers, and employees are increasingly expected to leverage data insights to drive innovation, improve operations, and gain a competitive edge. This cultural shift challenges the notion of a centralised CDO role as the sole custodian of data-driven initiatives.

3.Integration of Data into Business Functions: In today's interconnected world, data is deeply embedded within every aspect of an organisation. From marketing and sales to finance and operations, data-driven decision-making is becoming integral to various business functions. Consequently, the responsibility of data management is distributed among different leaders, such as Chief Marketing Officers, Chief Financial Officers, and operational heads. This collaborative approach eliminates the need for a dedicated CDO and ensures data governance and strategy are ingrained within each function.

4.Evolution of Technology and Automation: Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and automation, are revolutionizing data management and analytics. Organisations are leveraging advanced tools and platforms to automate data processes, reducing the need for manual intervention. Data governance, data quality, and compliance are increasingly embedded into data management platforms, making the role of a traditional CDO less relevant. As technology evolves, businesses are transitioning towards agile, self-service data management models.

5.The Rise of the Data and Analytics Officer: While the traditional CDO role might be diminishing, it does not imply the end of data leadership. As data becomes more pervasive, a new role is emerging – the Data and Analytics Officer (DAO). This role encompasses a broader scope, focusing on data strategy, analytics, and driving data-driven innovation across the organisation. The DAO collaborates with business units, ensures data governance, fosters a data-driven culture, and acts as a catalyst for data transformation.

Conclusion: As data becomes increasingly integrated into organisational DNA, the role of a Chief Data Officer is undergoing a transformation. The traditional CDO's responsibilities are shifting towards a more distributed and collaborative approach to data governance and leadership. The rise of data democratisation, the integration of data into business functions, technology advancements, and the emergence of the Data and Analytics Officer all contribute to this evolving landscape. While the role of the traditional CDO may be fading, data-driven organizations are adapting to leverage data strategically across the entire enterprise. Embracing this change will be critical for businesses seeking to thrive in the data-driven future.

Need to hire one? a good question is to ask them is they are offensive or defensive - that will show which side of the commercial fence they sit on.