The role of chief data officer (CDO) has existed for over two decades, but despite its establishment as a C-suite staple, the position still suffers from a lack of clear definition and understanding within organizations.

A significant majority (73%) of CDOs feel their role is poorly understood compared to other C-level executives, stemming primarily from the absence of standardized responsibilities across different organizations. As a result, the CDO’s duties can vary widely, creating confusion about their exact scope of work and value within the corporate structure. To help combat these challenges, organizations can proactively clarify and promote the role’s key functions and strategic value.

The Essential CDO Playbook

When you boil it down to the basics, the CDO is a data steward responsible for ensuring the business can leverage data to drive growth. However, the specifics of the role are more ambiguous than most other C-level positions. For example, one report found that there are significant inconsistencies regarding to whom the CDO should report. About a quarter report to the CEO, 12% to the CFO, and 14% to another executive. Priorities range as well.

Amidst these ranges in reporting and duty discrepancies, there are steps you can take to get everyone on the same page. Implementing the following best practices will help empower the CDO to make strategic business decisions.

1. Align the CDO’s objectives and OKRs with the long-term goal of the organization. For example, if your organization’s goal is to improve revenue by 10% through increased inbound, tie data initiatives to activities that improve visibility and can increase inbound interest.
2. Identify organizational “supporters” of the CDO. These supporters should be fellow members of the C-suite who can advocate for the role’s importance and the importance of data overall.
3. Implement educational initiatives within organizations to help other executives and employees understand the CDO’s role and its importance.
4. Establish a professional network or association for CDOs to share best practices and collaborate on defining industry standards.
5. Encourage multiple executives to become involved in the success of the CDO role by enabling transparency into the data department’s metrics of interest. Provide a forum for the CDO to communicate the importance of different OKRs.
6. Promote case studies and success stories demonstrating the value CDOs bring to organizations, helping to justify and clarify their position in the corporate hierarchy.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can promote an improved understanding of the CDO’s role among all employees. When job functions and objectives are clearly defined and aligned across the organization, everyone can work more efficiently and effectively toward common goals that drive business success.