A Cubic Framework for the Chief Data Officer: Succeeding in a World of Big Data

Abstract

A new breed of executive, the chief data officer (CDO), is emerging as a key leader in the organization. We provide a three-dimensional cubic framework that describes the role of the CDO. The three dimensions are: (1) Collaboration Direction (inwards vs. outwards), (2) Data Space (traditional data vs. big data) and (3) Value Impact (service vs. strategy). We illustrate the framework with examples from early adopters of the CDO role and provide recommendations to help organizations assess and strategize the establishment of their own CDOs.