Keepit report highlights crucial role of data governance

Keepit has published a report identifying data governance as crucial in fostering cyber resilience in increasing AI use and burgeoning cybersecurity threats.

The report, "Intelligent data governance: Why taking control of your data is key for operational continuity and innovation," underscores data governance's foundational role in modern enterprises. It emphasises ensuring companies can manage data effectively in the age of technological advancements.

Kim Larsen, Chief Information Security Officer at Keepit, stated, "Data is the foundation of innovation and preparedness. By focusing on data governance, CISOs and CIOs will lay the groundwork to effectively manage and grow their modern, data-driven enterprises. We hope our new report, with its practical approach to data governance, will give needed insights into data, its importance, and the crucial role intelligent data governance can play in today's cybersecurity landscape."

In its research, Keepit engaged with 30 senior IT leaders from diverse industries, uncovering significant trends impacting enterprise IT organisations. These include the flexibility provided by cloud technologies, the increasing pervasiveness of AI, and the pressures imposed by tightening budgets.

The findings suggest that Chief Information Officers and Chief Information Security Officers must prioritise equipping their organisations with the tools necessary to establish a sustainable business continuity framework. Central to this task is the implementation of robust data control strategies.

Kim Larsen commented, "Data governance paves the way for data resilience. Through data classification, companies will be able to detect any gaps in their business continuity plans, and, as an added benefit, enhance their current day-to-day operations."

The report also highlights the crucial role of data governance in ensuring compliance. As regulations like NIS2, DORA, and GDPR increasingly influence operational procedures, companies need robust data management strategies to meet these requirements.

Larsen noted, "Data governance is the cornerstone of compliance. Knowing where your data is, what data is crucial for business operations, and who has access to it are all questions modern organisations need to answer to be cyber resilient."

The report stresses the need for CIOs and CISOs to ensure data resilience, enabling seamless data access for users and applications. Data resilience covers three key aspects: prevention, detection, and recovery.

Larsen also emphasised, "A data loss or outage incident can stop an organisation in its tracks. Our report highlights that the ability to recover critical systems should never be left to assumptions or chance. Backup and recovery preparedness should be a board-level consideration at every company."