Data Governance
Universität Hamburg recognizes the central significance of data in today’s research and higher education system and is thus committed to implementing a robust data governance system. It is important to emphasize that we are not concerned here with research data but with general data management and use within the University.
Our data governance team is a virtual, pan-University team consisting of experts in various fields, including:
- data governance office (Smart Administration Unit)
- data architects
- data analysts
- data protection officers, IT security and department-specific units
- data managers for the relevant data areas
The team’s main duties are:
- planning data management— agreeing upon requirements and design of data processes
- data-quality assurance— defining standards for monitoring data quality
- risk management— recognizing risks in data management and ensuring data protection
- responsibility and transparency— clarifying and communicating clearly defined areas of responsibility in data management
- implementing and integrating tools— choosing and implementing suitable data governance tools
- communication and training— providing information and conducting workshops
Data governance is a pillar of our holistic data concept and ensures our data are being managed and protected efficiently and used optimally to support and improve operations at Universität Hamburg. Our data concept is based on the findings of the data management project of 2016–2020. Our main goal is to establish clear procedures and responsibilities while we also continue to improve data quality.
Change management is another key element of our efforts. We recognize that greater professionalism in data management requires organizational adjustments at Universität Hamburg. This is not just about introducing new processes and technologies but also about fostering a forward-looking culture of data management that ultimately reflects the University’s more developed understanding of handling data.
Thus, we place great value on actively incorporating our staff into this process. Purposeful communication, training, and workshops will ensure that everyone involved is not only well-informed but also well-prepared for future developments in data management.