MetaDAMA - Data Management in the Nordics

«Don’t make it hard to understand for the business. Make it simple and clear.» Get new perspectives on Data Governance with Valentina Niklasson from Volvo Penta as she talks about certain patterns, stages in the acceptance of Quality Management or Lean, that Data has to go through. Her rich experience in making Data Governance business-centric emerges, showcasing how you can get an organization engaged in Data. Gain insights on the synergy between lean methodology and effective Data Management. We explore the application of the PDCA Deming circle in Data and discuss how common languages and methodologies bridge the gap between Data, IT and business. This convergence is not just theoretical; it's a practical pathway to tapping into customer insights, translating needs into strategies, and fostering a culture where continuous improvement reigns. Finally, we delve into the human aspect of Data and Data Stewardship, emphasizing the importance of people over technology in cultivating a data-driven culture. By engaging the curious early and involving them in the development of business information models, we build ambassadors within the business, ready to champion change. Valentina and I talk about the dynamic role of Data Stewards and the approach to involving business personnel, ensuring the smooth adoption of new processes and strategies. Here are my key takeaways: Quality management as inspiration Data Stewardship

«Dataen i seg selv gir ikke verdi. Hvordan vi bruker den, som er der vi kan hente ut gevinster.» / «Data has no inherent value. How we use it is where we can extract profits.» Embark on an exploration of what a data-driven Police Force can be, with Claes Lyth Walsø from Politiets IT enhet (The Norwegian Police Forces IT unit). We explore the profound impact of 'Algo-cracy', where algorithmic governance is no longer a far-off speculation but a tangible reality. Claes, with his wealth of experience transitioning from the private sector to public service, offers unique insights into technology and law enforcement, with the advent of artificial intelligence. In this episode, we look at the necessity of integrating tech-savvy legal staff into IT organizations, ensuring that the wave of digital transformation respects legal and ethical boundaries and fosters legislative evolution. Our discussion continuous towards siloed data systems and the journey towards improved data sharing. We spotlight the critical role of self-reliant analysis for police officers, probing the tension between technological advancement and the empowerment of individuals on the front lines of law enforcement. We steer into the transformation that a data-driven culture brings to product development and operational efficiency. The focus is clear: it's not just about crafting cutting-edge solutions but also about fostering their effective utilization and the actionable wisdom they yield. Join us as we recognize the Norwegian Police's place in the technological journey, and the importance of open dialogue in comprehending the transformations reshaping public service and law enforcement. Here are my key takeaways:

«If you want to run an efficient company by using data, you need to understand what your processes look like, you need to understand your data, you need to understand how this is all tied together.» Join us as we unravel the complexities of data management with Olof Granberg, an expert in the realm of data with a rich experience spanning nearly two decades. Throughout our conversation, Olaf offers insights that shed light on the relationship between data and the business processes and customer behaviors it mirrors. We discussed how to foster efficient use of data within organizations, by looking at the balance between centralized and decentralized data management strategies. We discuss the "butterfly effect" of data alterations and the necessity for a matrix perspective that fosters communication across departments. The key to mastering data handling lies in understanding its lifecycle and the impact of governance on data quality. Listeners will also gain insight into the importance of documentation, metadata, and the nuanced approach required to define data quality that aligns with business needs. Wrapping up our session, we tackle the challenges and promising rewards of data automation, discussing the delicate interplay between data quality and process understanding. Here are my key takeaways Centralized vs. Decentralized The Data Value Chain

«A lawyer has to be compliant. An advice from a lawyer should be fault free. Therefore it is so difficult to just do something. It is not in their DNA." Unlock the secrets to the legal sector's digital transformation with our latest guest, Peter van Dam, Chief Digital Officer at Simonsen Vogt and Wiig. We promise you a journey into the innovative realm where data management and artificial intelligence redefine the traditional practices of law. Peter offers us a glimpse into his professional trajectory from legal tech provider to digital pioneer, emphasizing how data and application integration are revolutionizing legal services. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities that come in a new era of digital sophistication in the law profession. Our conversation dives into the significance of roles like Chief Digital Officer in shaping a progressive future for a historically conservative field. We share stories of how to catalyze excitement for technology among legal eagles and clients alike, and we explore the strategic vision needed to navigate the balance between innovation, confidentiality, and compliance. The episode examines the expanding potential for automation within legal services. Here, the focus shifts to how digital tools enhance, rather than replace, the human expertise of lawyers. Rounding off the discussion, we shine a light on how law firms are upgrading their data access protocols, ensuring that sensitive information remains under lock and key. My key takeaways: LegalTech Document & Content Management AI and trends in Technology The role of CDO

«We are going to treat our data at the highest level, making sure that we can use it as a competitive advantage. Then it’s a strategic choice.» Unlock the strategic potential that lies at the heart of Data and AI with our latest discussion featuring Anna Carolina Wiklund from IKEA. Embark on a thought-provoking journey with us as we dissect the significance of robust strategies in shaping digital landscapes. From the role of data as the lifeblood of digital commerce to the ways it can radically alter customer behavior, this episode promises insights that redefine the boundaries of e-commerce and digital merchandising. We explore the complex interplay between business, digital and data, revealing how the alignment of strategies across various organizational levels can forge a path to business impact. Learn how a coherent vision can transform not just marketing strategies, but also those of HR and other departments, and the critical importance of shifting from output to outcome-focused objectives to measure success. Finally, we navigate through the evolution of strategy in the face of AI's relentless march, examining the essential need for agility and visionary thinking to keep pace with a rapidly transforming arena. This episode is a masterclass in instilling a culture of excellence, accountability, and collaboration that can propel companies forward. With real-world examples and actionable insights, we offer a clarion call for businesses to reassess and adapt, ensuring that their strategies are not just surviving, but thriving, in the AI era. Join us and fortify your strategic acumen for an increasingly digital future. My key takeaways: One Strategy

"We believe that by making data more accessible, the city will become more transparent and accountable to the people that we serve." In our latest MetaDAMA episode, we're joined by Inga Ros Gunnarsdottir, the Chief Data Officer (CDO) of the City of Reykjavik, who's at the forefront of a transformation towards data-driven innovation of inclusion and accessibility. She walks us through her fascinating journey from engineering at L'Oreal to shaping the future of data use in municipal services. Her insights reveal how simple text, visuals, and a focus on digital accessibility are revamping the way citizens interact with their city's data. As we navigate the terrain of digital transformation, Inga Ros delineates the distinct roles of a Chief Data Officer versus a Chief Digital Officer, highlighting the intricacies of their contributions to a city's digital ecosystem. Reykjavik's Data Buffet serves as a prime example of how open data visualization platforms can enhance not just transparency and accountability but also literacy in a society hungry for knowledge. She also shares compelling stories of data's impact in classrooms, planting the seeds for a future where every citizen is data-literate. We wrap up our conversation with a deep dive into the nuances of creating data visualization tools that adhere to digital accessibility standards, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can partake in the wealth of information available. The discussion traverses the significance of maintaining the Icelandic language in data communication and the imperative of ethical data collection practices, especially concerning marginalized groups. By the episode's end, it's clear that the key to unlocking the full potential of data lies in the simplicity and clarity of its presentation, an ethos that Inga Ros champions and we wholeheartedly endorse. Join us on this journey to discover how Reykjavik is rewriting the narrative on data inclusivity and the profound societal transformations that follow. My key takeaways: Data Buffet:

«Companies are already wanting to position themselves ahead of the legislation, because they see the value of actually adaption best practices early on and not waiting for enforcement.» Prepare to dive into the risk-based approach of legislation for artificial intelligence with the insights of Laiz Batista Tellefsen from PwC Norway, who brings her expertise in AI from a legal perspective to our latest episode. We tackle the imminent European Union's AI Act with its sophisticated risk-based approach, dissecting how AI systems are categorized by the risks they pose. Norwegian companies, listen up: the AI Act is on its way, and it's time to strategize. We discuss the necessary steps your business should consider to stay ahead of the curve, from embracing AI literacy to reinforcing data privacy. Laiz and I dissect the balance between innovation and risk management, and we shed light on how cultivating a culture of forward-thinking can ensure safety doesn't come at the cost of progress. This segment is a must for businesses aiming to turn compliance into a competitive edge. Zooming out to the broader scope of AI governance, we offer advice for maintaining the delicate dance between compliance and cultivating innovation. Discover the vital guardrails for capitalizing on AI's potential while readying for the unknown risks ahead. We peel back the layers of the AI Act's impact on the legal sector, unearthing the nuances of intellectual property rights and data transfer laws that could reshape your organization's approach to AI. Join us for a conversation that promises to leave you not only prepared for the AI Act but poised to thrive in an AI-centric future. Here are my key takeaways: What to consider now:

«The journey Software development went through during the last 10 years, working towards DevOps and agile development, is something that we can really benefit from in the data space.» Uncover the synergy between agile software development and data management as we sit down with Alexandra Diem, head of Cloud Analytics and MLOps at Gjensidige, who bridges the gap between these two dynamic fields. In a narrative that takes you from the structured world of mathematics to the true data-driven insurance data sphere, Alexandra shares her insights on Cloud Analytics, Software Development, Machine Learning and much more. She illustrates how software methodologies can revolutionize data work. This episode peels back the layers of MLOps, drawing parallels with the established tenets of software engineering. As we dissect the critical role of continuous development, automated testing, and orchestration in data product management, we also navigate the historical shifts in software project strategies that inform today's practices. Our conversation ventures into the realm of domain knowledge, product mindset, and federated governance, providing you with a well-rounded understanding of the complexities at play in modern data management. Finally, we cast a pragmatic eye over the challenges and solutions within data engineering, advocating for a focus on practical effectiveness over the elusive pursuit of perfection. With Alexandra's expert perspective, we delve into the strategy of time-boxed approaches to data product development and the indispensable role of cross-functional teams. Join us for an episode that promises to enrich your view on the interplay between software and data. Here are some key takeaways: The pitfalls Software Development Lifecycle vs. Data Lifecyle – they overlap, but there are clear differences, especially in the late phases.Feature-driven (or functionality-driven) vs. Data-driven: Is there a problem with software engineering mindset in data?Hypothesis - Data Science vs. Engineering mindset: Explorational vs. structural thinking can cause frictionEnvironmental challenges: How does Test-Dev-Prod split fit with data?

«I took the time to actually go through all of my notes, all of the training courses, all of the things that I looked at over the past 30 years of work. And I thought, I want to give myself a reference book. Wherever I go, I have this single thing that will have enough information to remind me of stuff I need to consider. This is now my book of Patterns." Get ready to have your perspectives on data management revolutionized! This Holiday special serves up a treasure trove of insights, as we dive deep into the interconnections of data, information, knowledge, and wisdom. We'll be shining light on the importance of quality data and the emerging role of data officers in organizations, challenge conventional thinking about systemic behavior changes and their impact on data management, while also stressing the utmost necessity of experimentation and testing to comprehend the ever-changing data patterns. I was lucky to pick the brain of the experienced data expert Jonathan Sunderland, whose career has spanned an array of industries and roles. The conversation is a call to arms for organizations to have clear purposes and goals when striving to become "data-driven." Plus, you'll get an exclusive peek into our guest's impressive "book of patterns" project, which promises to be an invaluable reference for future endeavors. This is a thought-provoking exploration of the fine balance that large organizations need to strike between agility and long-term goals. We'll confront the dangers of resistance to change and the pitfalls of a myopic focus on quick wins, offering insights on how to foster a culture of innovation without falling into the trap of over-optimization or outsourcing purely for cost reduction. Moreover, we'll dive into the world of data governance, discussing its crucial role in fostering trust with data and facilitating informed decision-making. Finally, we distill the essence of personal growth into three potent rules of challenge, enable, and inspire. So, what's your capacity? How can you elevate it to tap into your fullest potential? This episode inspires to ponder these questions and propel your personal and professional growth. Happy Holidays!

«Sentralt I dette med å skape verdi er tverrfaglighet og involvere hele bedriften, ikke bare et lite Data Science miljø.» / «Central to creating value is multidisciplinarity and involving the entire company, not just a small Data Science environment.» Prepare for a journey into the landscape of data strategy with seasoned Data Scientist, Heidi Dahl from Posten Bring, one of the largest logistics organizations in Norway. She is not just engaged in strategic discussions about data, AI and ML, but also a passionate advocate for Women in Data Science, took the initiative to create a chapter of WiDS in Oslo, and co-founded Tekna Big Data. In our chat to understand the dynamics of data science and IT, we talk about their balance between research and practical development. Heidi articulates the urgency for a dedicated data science environment, exploring the hurdles that organizations often confront in its creation. We cross into the world of logistics, shedding light on the potential power of data science to revolutionize this industry. We uncover how strategic use of data can streamline processes and boost efficiency. Finally, we underscore the importance of nurturing an environment conducive for data professionals to hone their skills and highlight the role of a data catalog in democratizing data accessibility. Here are my key takeaways: Digital Transformation of Posten Bring Strategic use of data Competency

«A combination of strong buy in from top-management and strong flow of change agents (…) is a requirement for succeeding.» Eager to unlock the secrets behind building a trustful relationship with AI systems? I am sitting down with Ieva Martinkenaite, head of Telenor's Research and Innovation department to shed light on the interplay of accountability, ethics and AI technology. Through her role as translator between tech, leadership and business , Ieva brings a refreshing vantage point to the dialogue, providing a unique bridge between the tech and business spheres. We're taking a deep dive into the creation of responsible AI within an organization. Our conversation explores the firm foundation of clear values and top management's proclamations, to cultivate a bottom-up process for a governance structure. Understand the three-layer structure of AI governance and the imperative of expert support for data professionals. Plus, we'll be scrutinizing how adopting responsible AI as a core principle can fetch a positive social impact. In the finale of our discussion, we underscore the essence of responsible AI use and the value of investing in data professionals. Discover how individuals and companies can not only fulfill, but surpass compliance standards. Remember, it's not just about employing AI responsibly but about finding a responsible approach that fits you as an individual and your company. Here are my key takeaways: The two scenarios of concern with AI in Telecom: Responsible AI Steps to building Responsible AI Governance: Positive Social Impact

«How well are we rigged in Norway to handle this?» What a fantastic talk - With so much happening in Norway in autumn 2023, I brought on Alex Moltzau for a chat in AI policy and Norway. Alex Moltzau is a Senior Policy Advisor at the Norwegian Artificial Intelligence Consortium (Nora.ai), and one of the most outspoken experts on AI policy and ethics in Norway. What is NORA.ai? Why AI policy? State of AI in Norway The role of Data Professionals https://www.nora.ai/

«I think that having a very good framework, where you can put all ML and AI in, makes it much easier, much more clear. (Jeg tror det å ha et veldig bra rammeverk, der du kan putte all ML og AI inn i, det gjør at du får det mye lettere, mye mer oversiktlig.)» Frende Forsikring, a Norwegian Insurance Company has build up a team of 6 people that work with Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence in the company. Their goal is to ensure the companies growth through automation. Anders Dræge is the Head of the Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence team at Frende Forsikring and he has always had an interest for data and automation. Anders is not just an award winning Data Scientist, one of the Nordic 100 in 2023, but also a person that is happy to share his knowledge. The goal for Automation The composition of the team The process The technological framework Key factors for success The use cases For the work Frende Forsikring has done with Natural Language Processing (NLP) for email distribution, the team won the Dataiku Frontrunner Award 2023. https://www.frende.no/aktuelt/frende-vant-internasjonal-ai-konkurranse/

«There should be very little reason to say: Hey, I need a human to look these operational things for me. They are all defined as code.» Lars Albertsson has a long career in Data and Software Engineering, including Google and Spotify. Lars is on a mission to spread the superpowers of working with data, with the vision to: «Enable companies outside of the absolute technical elite to work with data with the same efficiency or effectiveness as the technical elite companies in an industrial manner.» 4 types of companies: The differences Getting close Automation is Innovation Automated Data Management Ford CEO on Software: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/HrNN6goQe50

«How do you develop good procedures around testing or how do you drive experimentation in a product or business setting?» Carl Johan Rising works as Director of Data at Too Good To Go, a marketplace that enables food businesses to sell their surplus food instead of throwing it in the bin. We talked about how to form a product team, and how to rethink the role of Data Scientists in your team, shape it in an embedded team, close to domains and with expertise and customer focus. We talked about skills, product focus, business partners and much more. «(A career in) data gives you a bit of everything.» Data at Too Good To Go Product Analyst: i «I think the role of Data Scientist can mean a lot of different things.» Data Analytics Business Partner

It is good to be back with Season 3 of MetaDAMA, and as always, we start with a DAMA-focused episode. Nino Letteriello is one of Europes most influential data leaders, president of DAMA Italy and Coordinator for the DAMA EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, Africa). Nino started his carrier in project management, educated in civil engineering, and got involved in Data Management around 2017. Since 2019 he is the regional coordinator for DAMA EMEA. Here are my key takeaways: What is so special about DAMA EMEA? Data Literacy and awareness Is DAMA still relevant? DAMA EMEA Conference Get more information and sign up here for the conference: https://data-emea.org

«Sometimes, you look at the problem and think it’s valuable, you spend a lot of time on it, and then you find out that this is really a NO!» Ida Haugland and I talked about the importance of Data in Shipping, about a concrete examples for success through digitalization and mainly about the focus on Product Management. Ida works as Principle Product Manager at Omny. At the time of recording Ida was part of Klaveness Digital and is presenting from her perspective from her work there. She started here career with data, while working for Customer Satisfaction for Facebook in 2010. Here are my key takeaways: Shipping & Logistics Carbon Emissions and the role of Data Digital Product Management Skills for a Digital Product Manager And the Number One rule as a Digital Product Manager: «Don’t mistake your own opinion for the right opinion.»

«How can we consolidate data and describe it in a standardized way?» Scientific Data management has some unique challenges, but also provides multiple learnings for other sectors. We focused on Data Storage and Operations as a knowledge area in DMBok. A topic that is often viewed as basic, often not in focus, but is a fundamental part of data operations. I talked to Nicolai Jørgensen at NMBU - Norwegian University of Life Sciences. Nicolai has a really diverse background. His journey in data started in 1983! In his free time, Nicolai spends time with photography and AI for text to image generation Here are my key take aways: Scientific Data Management Standardizing Infrastructure Long-term Preservation & Integrity

"It's about taking a step back to ask yourself: Should we even have a data-driven system for this?" («Det handler om å ta et steg tilbake for å spørre seg: Skal vi i det hele tatt ha et data-drevent system på dette her?») We finish season 2 with a though-provoking episode, to maybe start som debate about data-driven public administration. Lisa Reutter is PostDoc at the University of Copenhagen connected to a project called: «Datafied Living». We talk about the importance of Social Science in Data, and how data is intertwined with our lives. Lisa is researching in the field of «Critical data and algorithm studies», at the interplay between tech, data and society. Here are my key takeaways: Data in Public Administration Registers The public debate about data-driven Customer-centric vs. data-as-an-asset vs. democratizing data We need to understand, that this has implications on how we... 1. Trust in the state 2. Trade - what do I give my data for? What do I get in return? 3. Build in accepted ways 4. Weight opportunities against risk 5. Ensure that the responsibility for understanding does not lie with the citizen alone 6. Gain knowledge, and how everyone can get it 7. Should invite for debate

«When technology evolves really fast, also the skills you need to hire for evolve really fast.» Within a rapidly changing environment, fueled by technology and great ideas, it can be hard to define a stable career path. So I brought in an expert on developing companies and building legacies. Pedram Birounvand has a background in quantum physics, data engineering, experience from Spotify and moved into private Equity 6 years ago. Now Pedram started a new chapter in his career as the CEO of a startup working with Data Monetization. Here are my key takeaways: Data Skills for the Future Recruitment