Syniti launches Data First Strategy

Many organisations treat data as an afterthought in their transformation projects – often to their own peril. Every digital transformation requires data transformation, and failing to address data early can lead to cost overruns, unreliable analytics, project delays or even failures. A recent McKinsey1 report predicts that by 2024, companies will spend an estimated $100 billion on wasted data migrations on a global scale. A key component of the Data First strategy is to begin data work before or at the same time as the global design phase of a digital transformation project; currently, most transformation efforts will start with design and worry about data later. Syniti customers have seen better results and can realise benefits faster by either starting the data workstream first or running the global design and data work in parallel.

Starting data work early and focusing on the importance of high-quality data will also be crucial to companies looking to drive value and innovate with generative AI. Poor-quality data can lead to problems like inaccurate recommendations, result bias, and irrelevant guidance – all of which can negatively impact brand reputation.

Foundational to the Data First strategy is Syniti’s commitment to being a purpose-built, pure-play data company with a 100% dedicated team of functional and technically skilled data experts who bring together intelligent software and a comprehensive eight-step methodology that prioritises business-ready data. As part of the Data First initiative, the company will continue to invest in training and cultivating deep data talent, making Syniti the premier place for data professionals to grow and challenge themselves, as well as refining its data-first methodology.

Additionally, the company is making strategic enhancements to its alliances programme to further emphasise the importance of creating a strong data foundation early in any transformation project. These changes include:

· Advanced training and product certifications: Partners will be expected to complete enablement work and certification testing to help ensure proficiency in Syniti’s technology, including all modules of its data migration software, the Syniti Knowledge Platform (SKP).

· Building data competencies: Data practitioners will engage in Syniti’s capability management process based on Syniti’s comprehensive eight-step methodology. The programme will promote the adoption of best practices beyond product certifications, including an apprentice model of skill building through experience and coaching, designed to help minimise risks and drive higher-value outcomes for project success.

· Syniti Premium Engagement Services: Premium Engagement Services include Syniti’s highest level of consulting expertise, on-demand support, advisory recommendations, project and data technology risk review and recommendations, as well as additional counsel to help maximise value from data in digital transformation projects.

Kevin Campbell, CEO, Syniti, said, “I can promise you, we’ve never had a client tell us they started their data work too soon. Data requires deep, specialised technology and business expertise – technical-only or design-first approaches will not deliver the valuable outcomes organisations are looking to gain from these efforts. Our Data First strategy is a true paradigm shift in how digital transformations need to be structured to be successful, and further confirms the importance of relying on true data experts to help ensure on-time and high-quality delivery.”

Gabriela Azzali, senior executive technology & transformation, said, “Having served as the lead executive for many complex digital transformation projects including those at Orica and BHP, I’ve learned first-hand the importance of starting your data work first, with an emphasis on making sure that data is clean and accessible. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside Syniti and I’m happy to see them publicly advocating the Data First approach that has led to the success of our joint projects.”