Let’s face it: data governance isn’t the sexiest topic out there. But if you’re serious about making the most of your company’s data, it’s a game-changer.
We at Data Driven Daily have spent countless hours poring over books on the subject. Why? Because we’re nerds who love this stuff, and we want to share the best resources with you.
This list covers our top picks for data governance books this year. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll find something valuable here.
These books will help you:
- Improve your data quality
- Make better decisions
- Stay on the right side of regulations
- Use data to innovate
Let’s have a look at the list.
What are the Best Data Governance Books?
- Disrupting Data Governance: A Call to Action – Laura Madsen
- Data Governance: How to Design, Deploy and Sustain an Effective Data Governance – John Ladley
- Data Governance: The Definitive Guide – Evren Eryurek et. al.1w
- Non-Invasive Data Governance: The Path of Least Resistance and Greatest Success – Robert S. Seiner
- Data Governance: Perspectives and Practices – Harkish Sen
- Get Governed: Building World Class Data Governance Programs – Morgan Templar
- Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance – David Plotkin
- The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance – Sunil Soares
- Data Governance for Dummies – Jonathan Reichental
Why Bother With Data Governance Books?
Let’s be honest: data governance isn’t the most exciting topic. But if you work with data, these books can seriously boost your career and help your company. Here’s why they’re worth your time:
1. Stay Current in a Fast-Changing Field
Data governance changes quickly. New ideas and tools pop up all the time. Reading these books helps you:
- Learn about new trends in the industry
- Pick up tips from experts
- Avoid outdated methods that could hold you back
2. Navigate the Compliance Maze
Data regulations are tricky, and the consequences of messing up can be severe. Good data governance books will:
- Explain complex rules in plain language
- Show you how to protect sensitive information
- Help you create a company culture that takes compliance seriously
3. Get More Value from Your Data
Data isn’t just numbers – it’s a key business asset. With solid data governance, you can:
- Improve the quality of your data
- Make sure the right people can access data when they need it
- Help your company make smarter decisions
4. Understand the Lingo
Ever felt lost when people start talking about data? These books can help. They’ll teach you:
- Important concepts and terms
- How to talk more effectively with data teams
- Enough to impress your boss with your data knowledge
So, ready to learn more about data governance? Pick up a book and get started. Your future self will thank you.
1. Disrupting Data Governance: A Call to Action
Laura Madsen’s book offers a solution for business owners and team leaders who are struggling to navigate modern data governance expectations. It comes in at #1 on our list of best data governance books.
The publisher describes it as a guide to “redefining governance for the modern era.” Madsen draws on her extensive experience in the field and provides insights from interviews with leading experts and thorough research.
She outlines the challenges and common misconceptions surrounding data governance, and argues that it should not be seen as a restriction on data usage, but rather as a means of supporting it.
Why Should I Read This Book?
You should read this data governance book if you are a business owner or team leader who is interested in improving your understanding of modern data governance expectations.
This book offers a fresh perspective on the subject, drawing on the author’s decades of experience and extensive research. The book provides insights into the challenges and common misconceptions surrounding data governance and shows how a shift in understanding is taking place.
By reading this book, you will gain a deeper understanding of how to approach data governance in a way that supports your organization’s data usage rather than restricting it. Additionally, the book provides a wealth of practical advice and real-world examples, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their data governance practices.
2. Data Governance: How to Design, Deploy and Sustain an Effective Data Governance
Ranking at #2 on our list of best data governance books, John Ladley’s classic book on data management, provides a comprehensive and in-depth guide for anyone looking to design, establish, and execute successful data governance programs.
The book covers all aspects of data governance, from the initial stages of creating a program to its full implementation. Ladley’s approach has been proven to be effective by organizations that have adopted his methods, and the book has received positive feedback from its readers time and time again.
Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to improve an existing program, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to help you achieve your goals. With its clear and easy-to-follow guidance, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to take their data governance program to the next level.
Why Should I Read This Book?
John Ladley’s classic data governance book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice for anyone looking to design and execute a successful data governance program. There are several reasons why you should consider reading this book:
- Comprehensive Overview: The book provides a complete and extensive overview of data governance, covering all aspects of the process, from the initial design to full implementation. Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to improve an existing program, this book offers a comprehensive guide to help you achieve your goals.
- Proven Success: Ladley’s approach to data governance has been proven to be effective by organizations that have adopted his methods. The book has received positive feedback from its readers time and time again, making it a trusted resource for anyone looking to improve their data governance program.
- Clear and Easy-to-Follow Guidance: The book provides clear and easy-to-follow guidance on data governance, making it an accessible resource for individuals of all levels of expertise. The author presents complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, making it an ideal resource for both new and experienced data governance professionals.
- Real-World Examples: The book includes real-world examples and practical advice to help you apply the concepts to your own organization. This makes it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their data governance practices.
Overall, John Ladley’s classic data management book is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to design and execute a successful data governance program. Whether you are just starting out or looking to improve your existing program, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to help you achieve your goals. It’s made it on to our list of best data governance books for a reason!
3. Data Governance: The Definitive Guide
Data Governance: The Definitive Guide is a comprehensive and insightful guide to the complex world of data governance. The author’s extensive knowledge and experience in the field shines through in the well-organized and clearly written text.
Each topic is thoroughly covered, making it easy for readers to understand the key concepts and best practices of data governance. The real-world examples and practical advice provided in the book make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their organization’s data governance program.
Evren Eryurek’s book ranks #3 in our list of best data governance books.
Why Should I Read This Book?
You should read this data governance book if you are interested in learning about the principles and best practices of data governance. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, making it an ideal resource for both beginners and experienced professionals.
I enjoyed reading about Evren’s thoughts on how to approach a data governance framework.
The author’s expertise and practical experience in the field ensure that the information presented is accurate, up-to-date, and relevant. By reading this book, you will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of data governance, and learn how to implement effective data governance programs in your organization.
Whether you are a data analyst, a business manager, or a technology professional, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in the fast-paced world of data governance.
4. Non-Invasive Data Governance: The Path of Least Resistance and Greatest Success
Non-Invasive Data Governance: The Path of Least Resistance and Greatest Success by Robert S. Seiner is an excellent guide for anyone looking to implement effective data governance in their organization. The author provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, highlighting the importance of taking a non-invasive approach to data governance.
The book provides clear and practical advice, making it easy to understand even for those without a technical background. The author’s years of experience in the field and his in-depth knowledge of the subject make this book a must-read for anyone looking to improve their organization’s data governance practices.
Whether you are just starting out or are looking to take your data governance to the next level, this book provides the insights, guidance, and best practices you need to succeed. Overall, this data governance book is a highly recommended resource for anyone looking to improve their data governance program.
5. Data Governance: Perspectives and Practices
In today’s data-driven world, data governance has become a crucial part of managing and utilizing data. In his book Data Governance: Perspectives and Practices, Harkish Sen provides a comprehensive overview of data governance and its significance in organizations. The book aims to provide a practical approach to implementing data governance that can be applied to various industries and organizations, regardless of their size.
The book is divided into three sections, covering the fundamentals of data governance, its implementation, and its sustainability. The first section lays out the basics of data governance, including its definition, key principles, and benefits. The second section focuses on the implementation of data governance, covering topics such as data governance models, data quality, and data privacy.
The final section delves into the sustainability of data governance, providing guidance on how to maintain and improve data governance practices over time.
Book Review
“Data Governance: Perspectives and Practices” is undoubtedly one of the best books on data governance available today. The author’s writing style is clear and concise, making the book accessible to both technical and non-technical readers. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of data governance to advanced implementation strategies, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their organization’s data governance practices.
The book’s strength lies in its practical approach to data governance. The author provides a step-by-step guide to implementing data governance, with plenty of real-world examples and case studies to illustrate each point. The book also offers guidance on how to sustain data governance practices over time, which is a critical factor in the success of any data governance initiative.
One potential drawback of the book is its focus on traditional data governance practices. While the book acknowledges the growing importance of emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain, it does not delve into these topics in great detail. However, this does not detract from the book’s overall value, as the core principles of data governance remain relevant regardless of the technology being used.
Why Should I Read This Book?
If you are looking for the best data governance books to guide you in implementing and maintaining data governance practices in your organization, “Data Governance: Perspectives and Practices” is an excellent choice. The book provides a practical, step-by-step approach to data governance that can be applied to any industry or organization.
Whether you are a data governance professional, a business executive, or a technical expert, this book will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed in managing your organization’s data effectively.
6. Get Governed: Building World Class Data Governance Programs
In Get Governed: Building World Class Data Governance Programs, Morgan Templar provides a comprehensive guide to building effective data governance programs that can help organizations achieve their goals. The book provides a practical approach to implementing data governance programs, including the necessary components for success, such as policies, processes, and technology.
Get Governed deserves to be on our top list of best data governance books.
The book is divided into four sections, covering the basics of data governance, the key components of a data governance program, the implementation process, and how to measure success. The first section provides an overview of data governance, including its definition and benefits. The second section focuses on the key components of a data governance program, including data quality, data architecture, and data security.
The third section offers guidance on how to implement a data governance program, from developing policies and procedures to selecting technology solutions. The final section provides advice on how to measure the success of a data governance program and how to sustain it over time.
Book Review
Get Governed: Building World Class Data Governance Programs is an excellent data governance book that provides a practical, step-by-step approach to implementing data governance programs. The author’s writing style is clear and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide range of readers, including business executives, IT professionals, and data governance experts.
One of the book’s strengths is its focus on the key components of a data governance program. The author provides detailed guidance on how to develop policies and procedures, manage data quality, and ensure data security. The book also offers valuable insights into how to select the right technology solutions to support a data governance program, including data governance tools and data management software.
Another strength of the book is its emphasis on measuring the success of a data governance program. The author provides guidance on how to develop metrics that can be used to track progress and identify areas for improvement. This is a critical factor in the success of any data governance program, as it allows organizations to continually improve their data governance practices over time.
One potential drawback of the book is its focus on large organizations. While the book provides guidance that can be applied to any organization, some of the examples and case studies may not be relevant to smaller companies or non-profit organizations. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract from the overall value of the book.
Why Should I Read This Book?
If you are looking for a practical, step-by-step guide to building effective data governance programs, “Get Governed: Building World Class Data Governance Programs” is an excellent choice. The book provides valuable insights into the key components of a data governance program, including data quality, data architecture, and data security.
It also offers guidance on how to select the right technology solutions to support a data governance program and how to measure its success. Whether you are a business executive, IT professional, or data governance expert, this book will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to build world-class data governance programs that can help your organization achieve its goals.
7. Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance
Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance by David Plotkin is a practical guide for data stewards and data governance professionals. The book covers key topics related to data management and governance, including data quality, data privacy, data security, and more. The author provides real-world examples and actionable advice that can help organizations establish effective data stewardship practices.
Book Review
I found “Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance” to be a useful resource for anyone involved in data management and governance. The author’s writing style is clear and concise, and his focus on actionable advice makes this book a practical guide for data stewards and other professionals.
The book covers a range of topics related to data governance, including data quality, data privacy, and data security, which are critical considerations for any organization that wants to manage its data effectively.
One of the book’s strengths is its focus on the role of the data steward. The author provides guidance on how to structure the data stewardship function within an organization, and offers practical advice on how to establish effective data stewardship practices. The book also includes real-world examples and case studies, which help to illustrate key concepts and provide practical insights that readers can apply to their own organizations.
Why Should I Read This Book?
If you’re involved in data management or governance, “Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance” is a valuable resource. The book provides practical advice and real-world examples that can help you establish effective data stewardship practices within your organization.
Whether you’re a data steward, data governance professional, or simply interested in learning more about data management, this book is an excellent resource. The author’s clear writing style and focus on actionable advice make complex concepts easy to understand, and his emphasis on the role of the data steward provides a compelling argument for why this position is critical to the success of any data management or governance program.
Overall, “Data Stewardship: An Actionable Guide to Effective Data Management and Data Governance” is a must-read for anyone who wants to take their data management efforts to the next level.
8. The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance
The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance by Sunil Soares is a comprehensive guidebook for chief data officers and data governance professionals. The book covers a wide range of topics related to data governance, including the role of the chief data officer, building a data governance program, data quality, data privacy, and more. The author draws on his extensive experience in the field to provide practical advice and real-world examples that can help organizations establish effective data governance practices.
Book Review
Overall, I found “The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance” to be a valuable resource for anyone involved in data governance. The author does an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible sections, and his writing style is clear and engaging. One of the book’s strengths is its focus on practical advice and real-world examples. The author provides a wealth of insights and best practices that can be applied to a variety of industries and organizations.
One of the things I appreciated about this book is its emphasis on the role of the chief data officer. The author makes a compelling case for the importance of this position, and provides guidance on how to structure the CDO’s responsibilities and build a successful data governance program. The book also covers a range of topics related to data quality, privacy, and security, which are critical considerations for any organization that wants to manage its data effectively.
Why Should I Read This Book?
If you’re involved in data governance in any capacity, I would highly recommend “The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance”. The book provides a wealth of practical advice and insights that can help you establish effective data governance practices within your organization.
Whether you’re a chief data officer, data governance professional, or simply interested in learning more about data management, this book is an excellent resource. The author’s clear writing style and real-world examples make complex concepts easy to understand, and his emphasis on the role of the chief data officer provides a compelling argument for why this position is critical to the success of any data governance program.
Overall, “The Chief Data Officer Handbook for Data Governance” is a must-read for anyone who wants to take their data governance efforts to the next level.
9. Data Governance For Dummies
Data Governance For Dummies is an excellent resource for understanding data governance and its significance in today’s data-driven world. The book covers everything from the basics of data governance to more advanced topics like managing data privacy and security. The authors use simple language and real-world examples to make the concepts easy to understand, even for those with no prior knowledge of data governance.
Book Review
s an expert on data governance, I found “Data Governance For Dummies” to be an exceptional resource. The authors did an excellent job of breaking down complex topics into easy-to-understand terms, making it accessible to anyone interested in the subject. The book covers a wide range of topics related to data governance, including defining key terms and concepts, developing a data governance framework, and implementing policies and procedures.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book was its practicality. The authors not only provided theoretical concepts but also real-world examples and case studies that helped illustrate the importance and practical application of data governance. The book also provides practical tips and advice for implementing data governance policies and procedures, making it an invaluable resource for anyone looking to improve their data governance practices.
The book does cover some technical topics related to data governance, but I found the authors did an excellent job of striking a balance between providing enough technical detail to be informative while keeping the language accessible and understandable.
Why Should I Read This Book?
As someone who has been in the data governance world for a long time, I highly recommend Data Governance For Dummies to anyone interested in learning more about data governance. The book provides an excellent foundation for understanding the importance of data governance and its practical applications. It covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of data governance to more advanced topics like data privacy and security. The authors use simple language and real-world examples to make the concepts accessible to anyone, regardless of their level of expertise.
If you’re looking to improve your data governance practices or simply want to gain a better understanding of data governance, this book is a must-read. The authors provide practical tips and advice for implementing data governance policies and procedures, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in improving their data governance practices. Overall, “Data Governance For Dummies” is an exceptional resource that I highly recommend to anyone interested in data governance.
Data Governance Books Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What are the key topics covered by the best data governance books?
The best data governance books cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Fundamentals of data governance, such as its importance and relevance in organizations
- Key principles and frameworks for successful data governance implementation
- Data quality management, including data cleansing, profiling, and enrichment
- Data privacy and security, including compliance with relevant regulations
- Data stewardship, including roles, responsibilities, and processes
- Data governance tools and technologies
- Organizational change management for data governance initiatives
- Industry-specific data governance considerations
- Case studies, best practices, and lessons learned from successful data governance programs
Are these books suitable for data governance beginners?
Yes, many of the best data governance books cater to readers with varying levels of expertise, from beginners to seasoned professionals. They provide a solid foundation in the fundamentals of data governance, as well as in-depth discussions on advanced topics for more experienced readers. It’s recommended to start with books that focus on the basics before delving into more specialized texts.
can these books help me implement data governance in my organization?
The best data governance books provide valuable insights, practical advice, and proven methodologies for implementing data governance in organizations. While reading these books can help you gain the knowledge necessary to establish and maintain a successful data governance program, it’s important to remember that each organization is unique. Therefore, you may need to tailor the concepts and strategies presented in these books to your organization’s specific needs and context.
How can I keep up-to-date with the latest developments in data governance?
While the best data governance books provide a strong foundation, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the field. To do so, consider the following:
- Subscribe to industry newsletters and blogs focused on data governance.
- Participate in online forums and communities to exchange ideas and experiences with other professionals.
- Attend conferences, workshops, and webinars on data governance and related topics.
- Follow thought leaders and experts in data governance on social media platforms.
- Continuously update your knowledge by reading new books, research papers, and articles on data governance.
Are there any books that focus specifically on data governance for specific industries?
Yes, there are books that focus on data governance for specific industries, such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing. These books often address industry-specific regulations, data management challenges, and best practices for implementing data governance in the context of the industry in question. When searching for a data governance book, look for titles that explicitly mention your industry or sector to ensure that the content is tailored to your needs.
Can I find these books in digital formats?
Most of the best data governance books are available in both print and digital formats. Digital versions can typically be purchased or accessed through e-book retailers, publisher websites, or online platforms such as Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, or Google Play Books. Some books may also be available in audiobook format for those who prefer listening to their content.
Justin is a full-time data leadership professional and a part-time blogger.
When he’s not writing articles for Data Driven Daily, Justin is a Head of Data Strategy at a large financial institution.
He has over 12 years’ experience in Banking and Financial Services, during which he has led large data engineering and business intelligence teams, managed cloud migration programs, and spearheaded regulatory change initiatives.