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Data Governance

UW’s institutional data are a vital asset. They help us carry out our mission and make good decisions.

Why data governance?

There is increasing demand for data and analysis for decision-making at all levels of our organizational structure. This is especially true as data structures evolve and enterprise resource planning systems are replaced and new systems are implemented. Current structures and data-analysis capabilities are not adequate to meet increasing and evolving demands.

Data governance can help us manage data assets in a thoughtful, collaborative manner through an institutional lens. The UW’s data governance groups are responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive data and analysis strategy for the University. The ultimate goal is creating and fostering a best-in-class environment for data management, architecture and institutional analysis.

Scope

The scope includes academic, research administration, and business data on all three of UW’s campuses. It excludes patient data.

Timeline

The latest configuration of data governance began in the summer of 2019 and is designed to be ongoing, with committee membership reviewed and updated annually.
Learn more about current and previous data management efforts.

Approach

UW’s data governance works on behalf of the UW as a whole, including all three campuses, and is a journey of continuous improvement. Responsible groups will base their work on needs identified by members and those brought to the group through an open intake process. They will incorporate perspectives of executive leadership, academic schools and colleges, faculty, student government and a range of data owners. They will embrace productive conflict, invite intellectually diverse perspectives and encourage learning and evolution.