This Week’s Operations
Demystify DataOps: old principles, new concepts
Once in a while there is a new terminology emerging in the data world. This time, it is “DataOps”. You may wonder: what is DataOps and why is it essential for data leaders to understand this term?
“Data Operations, or DataOps, is a methodology that emphasises communication, collaboration, integration, and automation of data flows across an organisation. This approach helps in maximising the value and accessibility of data across the entire enterprise.” - Mirko Peters
The concrete implementation of DataOps methodology can vary, but it will all follow these key principles:
Collaboration between data team and others
Automation of data pipeline and validation check
Continuous monitoring of performance and errors
Continuous improvement of efficiencies and values delivered
I think of DataOps as a shiny new way to refer to Data Governance practices that have been upgraded with Automation Capabilities and Collaborative Mindset. It does make Data Governance sound much more exciting, while still emphasising some of the valid reasons why Data Governance exists: to ensure data integrity, usability and consistency across the organisation.
To understand more the best practices in DataOps, check out Mirko Peters’ article here.
This Week’s Strategy
The Big Lie of Strategic Planning
“Fear and discomfort are an essential part of strategy making. In fact, if you are entirely comfortable with your strategy, there’s a strong chance it isn’t very good” - Roger Martin
Stemming from a position of fear, the number one trap leaders fall into when making Strategy, is to make a Strategic Plan instead. This is a terrible, terrible way to do strategy.
Planning is a doable and comfortable exercise, hence it creates the illusion that you are dealing with the unknown. Strategising involves actually looking at the unknown and uncontrollable, then making bold choices to increase the odds of success.
Roger Martin describes vividly the way leaders are falling into the Strategic Planning trap, and gives us some pointers on how to do strategy right. Read more at: https://hbr.org/2014/01/the-big-lie-of-strategic-planning
That’s it for this week! If you enjoy or get puzzled by the content, please leave a comment so we can continue the discussion. Throw in a like as or share as well if you know someone who may enjoy this newsletter. Thanks!