Data organizations and world class museums

The magnificent British Museum draws millions of visitors each year. I have had the opportunity to visit this finest collection twice. 2 million years of human history; ancient and living cultures all in one reputed landmark. Wow !

The museum of the world, for the world, British Museum says it with pride .. " In the collections of the British Museum the world can write new histories that it needs to understand its past and shape its future" (Source: British Museum)

I draw parallels to organizations managing data and information.

The museum engages people of all backgrounds (and ages) in an almost unprecedented way. The stories and their interpretation unlocks cultural, situational and territorial dimensions in the context of today. You don't have to be a museum lover to absorb the amazing information and a window to your experiences of tomorrow.

Your organization has internal data and data acquired from third party providers. The museum has acquired assets, touring exhibitions and loans from other institutions. You have collaborative projects to address operational and tactical needs. The museum has similar collaborations with National Geographic, curators and researchers around the globe. You have strategic alliances with partners, vendors and the academia. The museum has worldwide reach for its collections, acquisitions, doctoral studentships and a strategy for the future.

Our data organizations share identical dimensions of collecting, integrating, packaging, delivering, governing and improving the value of assets. We must engage our employees, partners and vendors to collectively benefit from unlocking the values of these information assets.. and encourage them to contribute, enrich the experience and benefit from the outcome.

Is your data and business intelligence organization a stodgy collection of artifacts or is it a British museum ?