Data Governance as a Strategic Priority in the Age of AI

Artificial intelligence is becoming the backbone of modern business – but its success depends entirely on data quality. To deliver real value, AI needs high-quality, centralized, and securely managed data. That's why data governance is now one of the most critical strategic priorities.

Relying solely on SaaS APIs is not enough. Without a consolidated IT environment and systematic data integration, AI remains an isolated tool. Think of AI as an engine – and structured, integrated data as its fuel. This means collecting, validating, securing, and making data accessible across the organization.

The solution lies in a unified data stack, built either through full-suite solutions (e.g., Microsoft, Google) or flexible open-source options (like Apache, MinIO, LibreOffice). The key layers of such a stack are:

1. User Layer – employees can keep using familiar tools, as long as they’re connected to the central system.
2. Ingest & Integration – data is automatically pulled from various systems (e.g., via Apache NiFi).
3. Data Storage – must be scalable, secure, and linked to user interfaces. Most of the times, the storage is already there, but not well connected as a single-source of truth. So it is necessary to lean into the quiet work of the systems interconnector, which is not as sexy as AI, but without it AI cannot be built
4. Processing & Analytics – raw data is turned into insights and business actions (using tools like Databricks, Power BI, or Spark).
5. Governance & Security – trust in AI depends on transparent data access, lineage, and compliance (e.g., Azure Purview, Apache Ranger…). Data governance gives a company confidence in AI. That is also a competitive advantage – not only technological, but also reputational.

AI is not a plugin – it’s a company-wide system connecting people, processes, and technology. Think of AI as the brain of the living and breathing data stack of the entire company. Businesses that master their data without disrupting existing workflows will thrive in the AI era. Others will keep asking why AI “doesn’t work” for them.

To succeed, it’s essential to choose the right software provider with deep data and AI expertise.

Author: Oldřich Příklenk

Picture: chatgpt