Information Governance vs Data Governance

Information Governance vs. Data Governance: Key Differences

While Information Governance (IG) and Data Governance (DG) are closely related, they focus on different aspects of managing organizational assets. Here’s a simple breakdown of their differences and how they work together:

1. Definitions

Data Governance (DG):

- Focuses on managing **data as an asset**.

- Ensures data is accurate, consistent, secure, and available for use.

- Example: Defining who can access customer data and how it’s stored.

Information Governance (IG):

- Broader than DG, focusing on managing **all forms of information** (structured data, unstructured data, documents, emails, etc.).

- Ensures information is used effectively, ethically, and in compliance with regulations.

- Example: Setting policies for retaining and disposing of emails and documents.

2. Scope

Data Governance:

- Primarily deals with **structured data** (e.g., databases, spreadsheets).

- Focuses on data quality, metadata management, and data lifecycle.

Information Governance:

- Covers **all information assets**, including unstructured data (e.g., emails, PDFs, videos) and structured data.

- Addresses legal, regulatory, and business requirements for information.

3. Goals

Data Governance:

- Ensure data is accurate, consistent, and trustworthy.

- Improve data accessibility and usability for decision-making.

- Example: Creating a single source of truth for customer data.

Information Governance:

- Ensure information is managed responsibly and aligns with business objectives.

- Mitigate risks (e.g., legal, compliance, security) related to information.

- Example: Ensuring compliance with GDPR for all customer-related information.

4. Key Activities

Data Governance:

- Define data ownership and stewardship.

- Establish data standards, policies, and procedures.

- Monitor data quality and resolve issues.

Information Governance:

- Develop policies for information retention, disposal, and archiving.

- Ensure compliance with laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).

- Manage risks related to information security and privacy.

5. Stakeholders

Data Governance:

- Data owners, data stewards, IT teams, and business analysts.

Information Governance:

- Legal, compliance, IT, records management, and executive leadership.

6. Tools and Technologies

Data Governance:

- Data catalogs, metadata management tools, data quality tools.

- Document management systems, eDiscovery tools, compliance platforms.

Key Takeaway

- **Data Governance** focuses on managing data as a technical asset.

- **Information Governance** takes a broader view, ensuring all information is managed responsibly and aligns with business and regulatory needs.

- Together, they ensure that an organization’s data and information are accurate, secure, and used effectively.