Introduction
In the digital era, data is often called the new oil—but for many organizations, it’s more like unrefined crude: abundant, yet underutilized. Unlocking the true value of data requires more than just technology—it requires governance. ISO 37000, the international standard for the governance of organizations, provides a guiding framework to ensure that data is recognized, protected, and leveraged as a critical organizational asset.
Understanding ISO 37000
ISO 37000:2021 outlines the principles and key aspects of good organizational governance. It is not a prescriptive checklist, but a guidance standard that supports organizations in achieving their purpose, delivering value, and building long-term resilience. Among its core values are accountability, transparency, and stewardship—all essential for governing data effectively.
The Strategic Value of Data
Data is central to informed decision-making, innovation, and competitive advantage. Whether it’s customer insights, financial metrics, or operational analytics, data empowers organizations to:
- Anticipate risks and opportunities
- Drive efficiency and effectiveness
- Foster trust through transparency
- Deliver on strategic and societal goals
Yet, without strong governance, data can be misused, misunderstood, or even ignored—leading to poor decisions, compliance failures, and reputational damage.
Data Governance Under ISO 37000
ISO 37000 elevates data from a technical concern to a governance priority. Here’s how the standard helps organizations unlock the value of data:
- Accountability: Governing bodies are accountable for ensuring that data is managed ethically, legally, and in line with the organization’s purpose and stakeholder expectations.
- Stewardship: Data must be treated as a strategic asset. Boards and leaders are responsible for overseeing how data is collected, protected, analyzed, and used to support value creation.
- Transparency and Integrity: Organizations must communicate openly about how data is used, especially in areas like artificial intelligence, privacy, and sustainability reporting.
- Strategic Alignment: Data strategies should align with the organization’s purpose, values, and long-term objectives—supporting both internal decision-making and external impact.
The Link Between Data and Purpose
One of the most powerful aspects of ISO 37000 is its emphasis on purpose. Data is not valuable in isolation—it is valuable when used to fulfill an organization’s mission, deliver benefits to stakeholders, and create sustainable outcomes. For example:
- A healthcare organization uses data to improve patient care and outcomes.
- A financial institution uses data to enhance trust, manage risk, and detect fraud.
- A sustainability-focused company uses data to measure environmental performance and drive innovation.
Unlocking Value Through Good Governance
By embedding data governance within ISO 37000’s broader framework, organizations can ensure that data contributes meaningfully to long-term success. Benefits include:
- Improved decision quality
- Enhanced compliance and risk mitigation
- Greater stakeholder trust
- Stronger alignment between information and impact
Conclusion
ISO 37000 reminds us that governance is not just about oversight—it’s about enabling value. When data is governed as part of a wider governance system, it becomes more than information—it becomes a driver of performance, trust, and transformation.
Organizations that recognize the value of data—and govern it well—are better positioned to thrive in a data-driven future.
For further information and to book your ISO 37000 survey please contact: Marcus J Allen at Thamer James Ltd. Email: [email protected]
Marcus has twenty years’ experience in delivering Governance, Risk and Compliance solutions to over two hundred organisations within the UK. Marcus holds the respected Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance from the International Compliance Association and holds a master’s degree in management Learning & Change from the University of Bristol.
In addition, Marcus is a member of BSI Committee G/1 Governance.