Successful data governance in the public sector

Published on 3 February 2026

Whether it’s improving public services, increasing transparency or achieving societal goals, all of these are difficult without reliable and well‑managed data. But how can a public organisation ensure that data are not only secure and accessible, but also deliver real value to society? The answer lies in a thoughtful implementation of data governance that fits the specific context of the organisation.

Digital transformation concept. System engineering. Binary code. Programming.

What is data governance?

Data governance is the foundation for data‑driven working; not a new concept, but an essential condition for reliable, secure and consistent data supply and use. It comprises the agreements, processes and responsibilities through which organisations maintain control of their data. It is about authority, oversight and shared decision‑making over data assets. In the public sector, data governance is particularly complex due to continuous changes in legislation, societal interests and the involvement of a broad field of stakeholders. How can data governance be implemented successfully despite this complexity? In this article, we present four lessons derived from academic literature.

Four lessons from the literature for data governance implementation

Research shows that successful data governance in the public sector revolves around four interconnected themes:

1.

Organisation and alignment as a priority. Data governance starts with a clear vision on data and a solid data strategy. Leadership plays a central role in positioning data governance as a strategic capability rather than an IT project. Roles, responsibilities and decision‑making structures must then be tailored to the specific organisational context. Effective alignment between departments and with external partners prevents fragmentation and increases support. A central data governance team can act as a connecting link between policy, operations and IT.

2.

Employees at the centre. Data‑driven working is ultimately people’s work. Successful implementation requires data competencies and data literacy among all employees, from politician to operational staff. Change management is essential: make compliance easier than non‑compliance, reward positive behaviour and ensure that governance is aligned with existing work processes and the transformation underway. Training and ongoing education keep knowledge,skills and motivation up to date.

3.

Communication as a key factor. Good communication creates support and accelerates implementation. Develop a communication plan early on, tailored to different target groups within the organisation. Monitor implementation and allow room for feedback. Avoid jargon and explain why data governance matters for societal goals. Two‑way communication, for example through interactive sessions, helps overcome resistance and increase engagement.

4.

Data and technology as a cornerstone. Robust data governance requires standardisation, a data catalogue and clear processes to implement flexible data tools and technologies which make it possible to respond quickly to changing needs. However, these novel technologies also bring implications for data governance. Consider the impact of cloud technologies on data responsibilities and the impact of AI on the traceability of data use. Define clear data principles and requirements, implement standardised data models and ensure sound management of the entire data lifecycle. A data catalogue increases data discoverability and reusability, contributing to societal value.

Ongoing process

Finally, data governance is not a one‑off project but an ongoing process requiring continuous alignment, learning and improvement. By investing in vision, people, communication and technology, public sector organisations can turn data into a strategic instrument for societal impact.

This research was conducted as part of the Realisation Intergovernmental Data Strategy programme. Want to know more about the TNO research in this programme? Read the report (executive summary in English) Navigating European digitalisation: Connections, obstacles and opportunities for strengthening the international position of Dutch public organisations in the digital transition.

Meet the authors

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