This article is part of BLG’s 12-part series: 12 Strategic Priorities for Privacy, Cybersecurity, and AI Risk Management. The series is designed to help Canadian boards and management teams strengthen their governance frameworks while unlocking business value.
Most companies understand the importance of protecting physical assets and intellectual property. Yet many overlook data as a critical asset class, one that requires the same rigour, strategy, and governance. As organizations generate and rely on increasing volumes of data, failure to treat it as a strategic asset can hinder performance, and increase risk exposure.
Why it matters
Without consistent governance, data remains fragmented, unprotected, or under-leveraged. Identifying which data sets are most valuable — or most sensitive — is key to building a defensible strategy. Crown jewel data may include customer information, proprietary algorithms, or pricing models. The challenge is that few organizations have mapped these assets clearly or applied tailored protections.
Boards that ask the right questions can help prioritize investment and shape a more resilient data strategy.
What management and boards must prioritize
1. Enterprise-wide data inventory
A current and comprehensive view of organizational data is the first step toward consistent governance.
2. Identification of crown jewel datasets
Boards should expect clarity around which datasets are most critical to enterprise value — and how they are protected.
3. Consistent governance across business units
Variability in how data is collected, shared, or secured across departments can create compliance gaps. A harmonized approach is essential.
Final thoughts
Treating data as a business asset, not just an IT issue, empowers organizations to unlock value, comply with regulatory expectations, and protect what matters most.
