April forum: Data Governance
Per the old adage, knowledge is power – and today’s knowledge is data. Subsequently, this forum focuses on the field of data governance, a space that asks us to consider who controls our vast quantities of data, by what means, and with what repercussions.
While many have discussed the commercial significance of data governance, largely focusing on its technological and organizational aspects, we are only beginning to skim the surface of its social and political implications. Through policies and procedures, organizations and individuals manage every element of data, from its availability, usability, and consistency to its integrity and security.
Data governance is, by definition, supervisory. This forum thus asks participants who should govern data, to what extent, and how. How do data governance and socio-political factors shape one another? What are the ethical and legal implications of data governance? Other questions provoke participants to reflect upon the roles of rights and equity in data governance practices and to consider how we might build ethical data cultures.
The forum welcomes participants from a wide variety of disciplines, fields, and perspectives to discuss the capacities and limitations of data governance. To participate or learn more, write to Northwestern Buffett Senior Program Coordinator Ariel Schwartz, ariel.schwartz@northwestern.edu, and she will add you to the platform.