Principles are statements of philosophy, beliefs, and fundamental codes of conduct. They are to be applied every day as guidance for procedures and decision-making efforts.
Guiding Principles
- University data is a key strategic asset to UBC and therefore is managed appropriately throughout its lifespan.
- University data is easily accessible to relevant members of the UBC community as needed in order to carry out their roles.
- Quality standards for University data are defined and monitored. University data is trustworthy.
- All members of the University community own an equally important role on ensuring they are compliant with Data Governance procedures and standards.
- Resolution of issues related to quality and accessibility of University data follows consistent processes.
- There is a common vocabulary and shared and approved data definitions.
- There is a single version of truth for University data and primary sources of information will be updated with the most current information.
- University data management must comply with legal requirements and privacy and security principles, both internal and external.
Policies
In addition, Data Governance policies formally outline course of action and behaviours to achieve our goals of ensuring organizational data is accurate, accessible, consistent, and protected. Policies also establish who is responsible under various circumstances and specifies what procedures should be used to manage it.
Data Governance policies and procedures are living documents, they need to be flexible to respond to changing needs. An effective Data Governance policy requires a cross-discipline approach for information management. To ensure adoption, extensive consultation is required to meet the University’s diverse needs.
Standards
While data policies guide what to do and what not to do with regard to data, standards are more detailed rules on how to do it. A formalized documentation consists of mandatory actions and rules that conform to data policies. It embraces UBC's Data Governance visions and goals, ensuring proper data & reports management where consistent and high quality of data is maintained across the Institution. Similar to policies, standards do not change frequently and compliance is mandatory.
Guidelines
Guidelines provide guidance, advice, or explanation on how we may satisfy the provisions of a higher-level policy instrument or data governance principle, or how to accomplish data management best practices in compliance with the provisions of a given policy instrument. Application and compliance with guidelines are optional.