A recent survey from research and advisory firm Gartner found that 61% of organizations feel compelled to adapt or reconsider their data and analytics (D&A) operating models due to the impact of AI.
Gartner’s survey of 479 chief data and analytics leaders (CDAOs) globally explored the changing landscape of D&A strategies amid the rise of disruptive artificial intelligence (AI) technologies .
“In response to the rapid evolution of D&A and AI technologies, CDAOs are wasting no time in making changes to their operating model,” said Alan Duncan, vice analyst at Gartner. “CDAOs do this to support data-driven innovation and accelerate organizational agility, with data governance at the heart.
The survey also indicates a change in CDAO priorities. About 38% of respondents plan to overhaul their D&A architecture in the next 12 to 18 months, while 29% aim to refine data asset management and adopt governance policies and standards.
The responsibilities of CDAOs are expanding. With the growing importance of AI, CDAOs are now responsible for managing key elements such as data governance, D&A ethics, and data and AI literacy. Additionally, 49% of CDAOs consider generative AI (GenAI) among their top responsibilities, reflecting the growing emphasis on AI integration.
Mastery of data and AI
“While management of their organization’s D&A operating model grows year over year, no other role than that of the CDAO has responsibility for many of the key enablers of AI, which include data governance, “D&A ethics and mastery of data and AI,” Duncan said. “The scope of responsibilities of the CDAO role has also expanded as budgetary and resource constraints become even more problematic. »
However, these expanded responsibilities come at a cost. Despite reported funding increases, 46% of CDAOs still face budgetary constraints. Duncan suggests that CDAOs must articulate compelling business cases to secure funding and gain management support.
The survey highlights the importance of establishing business outcome-driven metrics for D&A initiatives. Only 49% of CDAOs have implemented such indicators, highlighting the need to focus more on demonstrating the value of D&A to stakeholders.
Gartner said CDAOs must improve their influence and understanding of organizational dynamics to drive meaningful change. Duncan warns that failure to prioritize organization-wide impact could result in CDAO roles being absorbed into technology functions by 2026.
Related Stories