Data-driven? Start with data awareness.
How do you create true data awareness within a large organization? In this ninth episode of the podcast, Frans Klaassen MBA / CDMP his unique approach, insights and lessons learned from increasing data literacy globally and implementing sustainable data governance in a corporate environment.
What is data awareness?
According to Frans, data awareness doesn't start with technology, but with people. Or as he puts it: "It starts with explaining the impact of your actions on the rest of the data chain."
A simple anecdote illustrates this perfectly: a remarkably large amount of toilet paper was being used at a refinery. The cause? Operators were quickly clicking through input screens without realizing that their actions were being recorded as deviations further down the process. By explaining this, awareness was created. Small insights, big impact.
How do you create data awareness?
Frans introduced a broadly supported programme with:
Peer-to-peer learning & Data Analytics Networks
Reach: 9,000 employees in 44 countries in 6 months
Practical examples, playbooks and videos
Champions who function as ambassadors
"You have to make data fun and understandable. That way you get the whole organization on board."
By fostering broad support rather than top-down management, a community-driven culture emerged. Initiatives were fueled by intrinsic motivation and supported by centralized resources.
Tools & approach
Automatic reporting on the source: accelerates processes and prevents manipulation.
Data Quality Handbook: living document full of practical examples.
Data Governance as an enabler, not a compliance obligation.
Dynamic KPI Reporting: focus on 10 KPIs at a time, replace them when they remain green for 3 months.
“Make sure that data governance doesn't feel like an obligation, but rather a necessity to do good work.”
👥 Governance & overcoming resistance
Frans addresses the well-known challenge: resistance at the intermediate management level. His solution:
Taking time for 1-on-1 conversations
Drinking coffee instead of PowerPoint
Listening, explaining, and connecting with practice
You don't have to get everyone on board right away. Start with a few who truly believe.
💡 Tips for organizations that want to start:
Start small – test with a pilot group
Anchor consciousness in culture – repeat, show value
Invest visibly in people – training, recognition
Make data fun and understandable – use stories
Create a consistent language – prevent proliferation of definitions
Ask your questions!
🎁 Ask all your questions for free via databewuster.comEvery Friday at 3:00 PM.
🚀 Or do you want it Guided implementation of the Metro Model within your organization? Schedule a no-obligation consultation now via powerbison.io/dataquality
