Data Strategy Development
Client Context
Gateshead Council commissioned Human Engine to develop an organisation-wide Data Strategy to support its ambition of becoming a more data-led authority. While the Council had invested in modern technology platforms and undertaken an LGA Data Maturity Assessment, challenges remained around data governance, information sharing, data standards and organisational capability. The Council wanted a practical strategy and action plan that would strengthen data leadership, improve interoperability, enable evidence-based decision making and support wider transformation priorities, including the Thrive agenda, Health and Wellbeing Strategy and IT Optimisation Programme.
Our Approach
Our approach comprised the below key elements:
Data Maturity Assessment: Reviewed existing surveys, workshop outputs and the LGA Data Maturity Assessment to establish the Council's current position, strengths and improvement priorities.
Stakeholder Engagement: Conducted interviews and workshops with Executive Directors, Service Directors, system owners and the Data and Insight Steering Group to understand barriers, opportunities and future ambitions.
Governance and Operating Model Review: Assessed existing governance arrangements, accountability structures, data management practices and organisational capability to identify areas requiring reform.
Strategy and Action Plan Development: Developed a comprehensive Data Strategy, supported by a prioritised action plan covering culture, skills, governance, systems, processes and technology.
Benchmarking and Best Practice Research: Applied the LGA Data Maturity Model and external good practice to develop a realistic roadmap for progressing data maturity and embedding evidence-based decision making.
Outputs and Outcomes
Key outputs and outcomes from this work included:
Council-Wide Data Strategy: Produced a practical Data Strategy aligned to corporate priorities, establishing a clear vision, ambition and roadmap for becoming a data-led organisation.
Prioritised Improvement Programme: Developed a structured programme of work covering data governance, leadership, culture, skills, systems, information sharing, retention policies and AI readiness.
Data Governance Framework: Recommended strengthened governance arrangements, including clearer accountability, cross-council governance structures, Information Asset Owner responsibilities and enhanced leadership oversight.
Future Operating Model Design: Defined a target-state approach for data and insight functions, supporting progression towards a more coordinated and strategic DDaT capability.
Skills and Capability Development: Designed a programme of interventions including data personas, training pathways, a Data Academy, champion networks and professional development routes for data specialists.
Improved Data Maturity: Established a roadmap for progression across all six LGA Data Maturity themes, enabling improved decision making, stronger governance, enhanced data sharing and better outcomes for residents
About Us
Human Engine is a leading management consultancy with specialisms in strategy, transformation, digital, commercial, procurement and projects.
Founded in 2018, we have partnered with more than 50 local authorities, central government, NHS organisations and national charities to help transform their strategies, operations and cultures.
Our mission is to help individuals and organisations to do the best work of their lives. We do this by blending first-hand, practical experience of the problems we help our clients solve with award-winning consulting expertise and an approach based on trust, collaboration and partnership.