New Data Governance Program Seeks Input

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A new data governance program is seeking input from the campus community. Align recently launched with the intent of stewarding high standards of how data is used and disseminated through the University.

“Align is committed to managing our data assets responsibly and fostering trust among stakeholders, users and consumers of data at The University of Alabama,” said André Taylor, UA’s data governance administrator. “We encourage everyone to get involved as we strive to enhance our data-driven decision-making.”

Interested parties are encouraged to submit any topic for the Data Governance Council at any time.

Align Launched to Enhance Efficiency

The Data Governance Council was formed in spring 2024 consisting of over 20 decision makers across campus. The council reviews data-centric issues and works to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the University’s data operations.

The council, alongside the Governance Executive Steering Committee, which is comprised of all current vice presidents and provosts, works to be a direct avenue for senior leaders across campus to engage with UA’s data community and be involved in its data strategy as well.

“Align aims to position UA as a leader in data strategy and operations. As our data continues to grow and evolve, effective data management practices are more crucial than ever,” Taylor said. 

What is Data Governance?

Essentially, data governance is the practice created to ensure data is protected, secure, accurate, available and usable. Align’s DGC created its best practices by which it will review data-centric issues from around campus.

“Each decision made by the council is grounded in four key pillars: operational efficiency, data quality, data standards and security, privacy, compliance, and ethics,” Taylor said.

Check out the Align website to learn more about this new program and how to submit topics of discussion for the council.