Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
Keeping the Momentum Going
Executives and managers, within the business and IT, play a significant role
in the ongoing success of the data warehouse. These groups must continue to
strengthen their partnership and work jointly to achieve the data warehouse
objectives. Management must continue to commit by allocating necessary
resources and being willing to make decisions about priorities and direc-
tion of the data warehouse. This also requires a willingness to support data
governance to ensure that the data is defined and used effectively. Finally,
business management must communicate the value of information to the
organization. This includes encouraging the use of data and underscoring
the value of performing analysis and making fact-based decisions. Manage-
ment sets the tone that drives the organization's attitude toward the data
warehouse.
When a data warehouse is first released, there is often a great deal of
enthusiasm and support. When there has been strong partnership between
the business and IT throughout the life of a project, everyone feels a sense of
ownership. The business is trained and use begins to take off.
Once the initial glamour wears off, frustration can build, but if problems
and issues are addressed in a timely manner, this can be managed. As the
data warehouse and BI application settle in to become the new status quo,
several things can be put into place to help ensure long-term adoption of
the data warehouse. While the following suggestions may be part of the data
warehouse project, it is important that they continue as the data warehouse
moves into production:
Include the use of the data warehouse and skills to perform analysis as
part of the job description and responsibilities of appropriate person-
nel:
This sends a clear message that these skills are valued and identifies
who is expected to perform these functions. This helps ensure that these
skills continue to be cultivated for years to come. Otherwise, the level of
expertise and skill can degrade over time.
Groom replacements for all critical data warehouse roles:
Both business
and IT staff members will change positions over time, often within the
organization and sometimes leaving. Although a key individual will
serve as the data warehouse executive sponsor, another person should
begin to learn and understand what that role entails. When the executive
sponsor leaves that position, someone is ready to step up and shoulder
those responsibilities.
Continue to offer introductory education:
Education that introduces the
data, the reports, and analysis must continue to be offered regularly. This
is the primary mechanism for new staff members to become proficient in
using the BI solution.
