Information is the resolution of uncertainty. ~Claude Shannon
So we’ve talked about digital transformation and most folks know what that is. Basically, it’s all about using technology to make our businesses better and smarter. But let’s talk about something that doesn’t get quite as much attention: Information Management (IM) and Information Governance (IG).
So, What’s the Big Deal?
First off, some quick definitions. Information Management (or IM for short) is about how you collect, store, and share information in your organization. Information Governance (IG) is more like the rulebook. It’s about policies, security, and making sure your data is reliable and accurate.
Even though they sound like different things, IM and IG are actually two peas in a pod, especially when you’re trying to bring your organization into the digital age.
Why Info Management Isn’t Just a Side Dish
Easy to Find Data: You need your team to find info easily and quickly, right? Good IM makes this happen by keeping things organized.
Mixing the Old with the New: When you’re moving from old systems to new ones, you want everything to play nice together. That’s another thing IM helps with.
Getting Everyone Onboard: The fanciest tools are useless if no one uses them. IM can help train your crew so they’re comfortable using new systems.
Doing More with Less: With good IM, you can automate the boring stuff, freeing up time to do cooler things.
Why Governance Isn’t Just Rules and Red Tape
Following the Law: There are laws like GDPR that tell us how to handle data. IG helps us not break those laws.
Keeping Data Safe: Good governance helps protect your data from leaks or hacks.
Keeping it Real: IG ensures your data isn’t telling you the wrong story. You can trust it to make decisions.
Staying on Target: Governance helps make sure everything you do with data helps you reach your big goals.
Why You Need Both
You might think IM and IG can be kept in separate lanes, but don’t. They actually work better together. IM is the worker bee that makes the IG plan come to life. And without a good IG plan, your IM efforts might just become a hot mess.
So imagine you can get to your data super easily (thanks, IM!) but then find out it’s all wrong or outdated (oops, bad IG!). That’s why you need both in sync.
Remember, we want to use technology wisely. Keep the balance and you’ll do more than just survive in the digital world!
Blog posts are my own and not the views of my employer.