Quality Data Is the Building Block of AI

Kim Weis, Chief Data Officer at North Dakota Information Technology, speaks with Bob Audet, Partner, Digital Solutions - Data at Guidehouse, in a video interview about developing a state-wide data strategy, the engagement and support of senior officials, the drivers and challenges, the role of cross-agency collaboration, and having the right vendor support for implementing a successful data strategy.

Weis begins by stating that data has historically been seen as an IT function, especially in North Dakota. She adds that the office of the CDO in North Dakota falls within the purview of North Dakota Information Technology. The placement of the office has led to great opportunities as well as challenges as the CDO office has been working to develop a state-wide data strategy. When it comes to the future state of technology and data solutions, Weis shares that the organization is in an advantageous position because of the established relationship with colleagues in IT.

Ensuring solid collaboration with agency stakeholders was the key to developing data strategy, says Weis, which in some cases meant building new trusted relationships on the data side. She adds that having a long-standing relationship with stakeholders who know their data best has been critical to building a modern data culture.

Weis maintains that the growing awareness of the role data can play in running organizations and businesses has naturally paved the way for a data-driven state of things. Moreover, the explosion of AI also has a critical role to play in this. She states that many agencies want to jump onto the AI bandwagon but in some cases, they cannot comprehend what it means. Therefore, when the agencies realize the true benefit of AI and understand that quality data is the building block of AI, that sparks awareness and makes them data advocates.

Listen to the full interview below.