Every business is a data business. However, really modern businesses also foster what is widely referred to as a data culture.

On its own, data does not drive success. Only when people mobilize around data does it unlock value for the organization. Putting facts at the center of every conversation helps to unlock collaboration that produces strategic insights, and improves decision-making.

“Data culture” is the collective attitude and belief of people who practice, value, support, and promote the use of data to enhance decision-making. Organizations that are leaders in data, use data to increase customer acquisition, operational efficiency, production optimization, and employee retention.

As a business leader, how can you get started on this journey?

Here are 3 practical steps any firm may take to start cultivating internal data communities within an organization.

1. Allocate time

Deploying the right enterprise software is the beginning of establishing a data community. Employees must schedule a time and place to collectively pour over data-related projects and learn new skills.

This may entail establishing a monthly online forum or setting up in-person staff meetings to discuss how to use data to solve business problems.

The most compelling data cultures prioritize sharing as a key component.

Companies must also invest in the people who use the infrastructure and the supporting procedures; it is not enough to simply invest in infrastructure.

2. Develop community leaders

To grow and spread adoption, it helps to identify and encourage community leaders. These people usually help their fellow employees see what the possibilities of data might be. They serve as leaders within their community and can also empower non-technical employees with data.

3. Make data fun, accessible and relatable

By holding engaging data-centric user group meetings, you may foster employee interest in data-based discussions. These engagements encourage teamwork and the exchange of best practices between people and teams. Example of activities include lunch and learn or hackathons.

At the end of the day, no matter how much time you invest in deploying technology, it is only as good as its internal adoption. For the technology to succeed, the organization needs to be molded and shaped to value things differently.