Enabling Data

Foreword by Thomas C. Redman

Despite decades of investment in data platforms, analytics tools and artificial intelligence, many organizations still struggle to turn data into real business impact. Too often, data initiatives become trapped in cycles of pilots, fragmented platforms, and growing technical complexity, while the promised value remains just out of reach. This book explores why that happens and what organizations must do differently to unlock the true potential of data and AI.

At the center of the book is the Enabling Data Model, a new mental model for designing organizations where data, analytics, and AI can scale. Rather than focusing solely on technology or isolated innovation projects, the model highlights the organizational foundations required for data work to succeed, aligning strategy, governance, technology, and people around the shared goal of generating value from data.

Accompanied by a Data Manifesto that articulates the first principles of enabling data, the book helps leaders rethink how data initiatives should be structured, governed, and sustained in complex organizations. Readers will gain

• a clear explanation of why many data and AI initiatives fail to deliver impact;
• a new mental model for aligning data capabilities with business strategy and innovation; and
• practical tools including diagnostic rubrics, data personas, use case templates, and the Platform Fit Canvas to translate ideas into action.

Combining strategic insight with practical guidance, this book equips senior data leaders, CDOs, product leaders, and analysts with the perspectives and tools needed to move beyond experimentation and build the foundations required for data, analytics, and AI to generate lasting business value.