Data Challenges May Not Be Just Tech Problems — They Could Be Related To Project Team

In today’s data-driven world, many companies focus on technology as the primary solution to their data challenges. They invest in high-end tools, advanced analytics platforms, and automated systems, all in the hopes of transforming their data into a competitive asset. However, technology alone rarely solves data problems. Often, the real challenges lie with the people who handle, interpret, and make decisions based on data. Without the right skills, mindset, and alignment, even the best technologies can fall short of their potential—Datactive Group’s d.GUARD and d{Guardrails} frameworks are designed to address these "people problems," helping companies create a culture that empowers individuals and teams to drive true data excellence.

Understanding the People Side of Data Challenges

A company’s data health isn’t just a product of its technology stack. It’s shaped by the people who interact with data daily, from data entry specialists to senior decision-makers. Many issues stem from gaps in data literacy, lack of clear governance, or inconsistent data practices among employees. For instance, one department may have a strong grasp of data best practices, while another struggles to understand data quality requirements. These inconsistencies create silos and inefficiencies, leading to data that is fragmented, misinterpreted, or misused.

Data challenges also arise when employees lack confidence or knowledge in using data effectively. They may avoid data-driven approaches, fall back on intuition, or make decisions without considering all available information. This “people gap” can prevent an organisation from fully capitalising on the insights hidden within its data.

How d.GUARD and d{Guardrails} framework Address These Challenges

Datactive Group has developed d.GUARD based on the d{Guardrails} framework to help organisations build a cohesive, people-centric approach to data management. These tools go beyond technical solutions, focusing instead on assessing and improving the human elements of data use across the organisation.

1. d.GUARD: A Comprehensive Skill Assessment Tool

d.GUARD is an AI-driven assessment platform designed to evaluate the data skills of individuals, teams, and the entire organisation. By gathering insights through responses and interactive assessments, d.GUARD builds a detailed profile of data competency across different levels. This helps companies identify strengths and improvements in data literacy, analytical skills, and readiness for data-driven decision-making.

For example, d.GUARD can reveal if a team is proficient in data visualisation but lacks skills in data interpretation or governance. These insights allow leaders to tailor training programs, set realistic goals, and build a data-driven culture at every level. Instead of merely investing in more technology, companies can invest in building a workforce that understands how to leverage data effectively.

2. d{Guardrails}: Establishing Standards in People, Process, Technology and Governance

While d.GUARD assesses data skills, d{Guardrails} provides a structured framework for aligning people, processes, technology and governance around data. It defines best practices and guidelines that ensure everyone in the organisation operates with the same standards for data quality, integrity, and security.

3. The d{Guardrails} framework covers four critical areas:

People: Sets standards for data literacy and training, ensuring all employees have a baseline understanding of data best practices.

Process: Defines workflows and responsibilities around data, minimising errors, duplications, and inefficiencies.

Technology: Ensures that tools and platforms are used effectively and that they integrate well with human workflows.

Governance: Establishes clear policies and accountability structures, making it easier for employees to follow data-related guidelines and for leaders to enforce them.

By implementing d{Guardrails}, organisations can create an environment where data practices are standardised and transparent, reducing the reliance on informal practices or guesswork. This framework supports a collaborative approach to data management, encouraging cross-functional teams to work together toward shared data goals.

Transforming Data Culture with Datactive Group

The ultimate goal of d.GUARD and d{Guardrails} is to empower organisations to build a robust data culture. Technology plays a supporting role, but it’s the people within the company who drive data success. Datactive Group’s approach to data consulting helps companies recognise this, shifting their focus from purely technological fixes to a more balanced strategy that emphasises people and processes.

By focusing on skills development, aligning data practices, and establishing transparent governance, Datactive Group helps companies address data challenges at their root. This holistic approach leads to data that is not only accurate and well-governed but also accessible, understood, and actively used by all employees.

Conclusion

Data challenges aren’t solved by technology alone. They require a comprehensive approach that addresses the people who work with data, the processes that guide them, and the governance structures that support them. With d.GUARD and d{Guardrails}, Datactive Group provides the tools and frameworks organisations need to bridge these gaps. By investing in people-centric solutions, companies can turn their data into a reliable asset, fuelling informed decisions and driving sustainable growth. In the end, true data excellence comes from a partnership between technology and the people who make it meaningful.