Hello, data Shokunin-deshi!
Over the past two months, we've explored a new approach to data strategy inspired by Eastern philosophy. Today, I want to reflect on our journey and share why this framework means so much to me.
Watch the Framework in Action
Want to see how all three layers work together? Watch my recent 30-minute webinar where I break down:
How to assess your present data reality
Techniques for crafting your three-year vision
Methods for staying on track while balancing maintenance and innovation
The webinar also explores how to find the "middle way" between firefighting and innovation - a crucial skill for modern data leaders.
The Path to Data Enlightenment
Eleven NBA championships don't lie. When I discovered how Phil Jackson transformed basketball teams through Zen principles, it sparked a revelation: What if we could bring the same sense of focus and harmony to data strategy?
Like many of you, I've sat through countless data strategy workshops that felt more like firefighting sessions than strategic planning. We'd spend hours diagnosing present problems, only to create solutions that would spawn new challenges months later.
Why The Vision Board Works
The Data Ecosystem Vision Board framework emerged from a simple observation: 95% of data strategy workshops never look beyond current problems. We need a better way – one that acknowledges today's challenges while building toward tomorrow's opportunities.
Through our three-part series, we explored:
Present Layer: Understanding your current data reality
Future Layer: Crafting an ambitious yet grounded three-year vision
Success Metrics: Measuring progress while embracing imperfection
The framework combines two powerful Eastern philosophical principles:
The Middle Way: Finding balance between extremes in data strategy
Wabi-Sabi: Accepting data's inherent imperfection while striving for simplicity
What's Next?
Starting January 8th, 2025, we'll begin a new series exploring how to transform your Vision Board into actionable yearly strategies. Subscribe to ensure you don't miss these practical guides to implementation.
Transform your data strategy from vision to reality with our new four-part series on yearly data execution. Learn how to balance maintenance, innovation, and roll-outs using ancient wisdom and modern practice. Whether you're drowning in support tickets or struggling to innovate while keeping the lights on, this series will show you the way to data harmony.
Newsletter Teasers
From Vision to Action: The Zen of Yearly Data Strategy, Discover how the Empty Mind principle can transform your yearly data planning. Learn why most data strategies fail and how my unique framework helps you focus on what truly matters. Plus: Get exclusive access to my Strategy Execution Board template.
Mastering Maintenance: The Foundation of Data Excellence, Stop treating maintenance as a necessary evil. Learn how to turn your maintenance strategy into a competitive advantage. Includes practical frameworks for balancing support, system upgrades, and cost optimization.
Innovation through Exploration: Innovation doesn't have to be chaotic. Learn how to structure your data innovation projects for maximum impact with minimum risk. Features my battle-tested Innovation Charter template and team composition guidelines.
Strategic Roll-outs and Sunsets: Master the art of change in your data ecosystem. Whether you're implementing new solutions or sunsetting legacy systems, this guide ensures smooth transitions. Includes communication templates and timeline planning tools.
If you're already working with the Vision Board, I'd love to hear your experiences. And if you're considering implementing it in your organization, let's talk – I'm offering free consultation calls to help you get started, just reply to this email.
Remember: Like a Zen garden, your data strategy should bring clarity and purpose, not chaos and stress. The Vision Board isn't just another framework – it's a path to transforming how your organization thinks about and uses data.
May your data flow with purpose!
Lior
P.S. Want to explore implementing the Vision Board in your organization? Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss how we can tailor the framework to your needs.
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