Structuring the Data Office for Success

Recording

Overview

The OPEN Government Data Act required federal agencies to designate a Chief Data Officer (CDO) beginning in 2020, many for the first time. The law specifies 14 core responsibilities for the position and their office in each agency. What the law did not detail or specify was how each agency should actually structure their unit and office. Subsequent implementation guidance from the White House Office of Management and Budget provided agencies substantial flexibility in determining the approach that was best suited to each respective agency. The lack of specificity in law and guidance has led to a variety of approaches and styles across the federal government. What are the considerations relevant for structuring new CDO positions? To whom should the CDO report? What resources should be dedicated to the CDO and their office?

The Data Foundation hosted an in-depth discussion of the decision points and relevant factors for senior leaders prioritizing the structure of new CDO units.

Speakers

• Nick Hart, Ph.D., President, Data Foundation
• Valerie Logan, Board Member, Data Foundation and CEO and Founder, The Data Lodge
• Kris Rowley, Former Chief Data Officer, General Service Administration and current Chief Data Officer, Conference of State Bank Supervisors
• Joe Willey, Ph.D., Director of Research, Data Foundation