Data in a Dangerous Time

In today's AI-powered world, your data can be your greatest asset-or your biggest liability.

This is your modern, no-nonsense guide to data management, data governance, and data quality-written for professionals who are ready to leave outdated methods behind and build a smarter, more resilient data foundation. Whether you're a Chief Data Officer (CDO), business analyst, IT leader, or anyone who works with information systems, this book delivers clear strategies that align data with business goals.

Author Merrill Albert brings decades of hands-on experience to this practical playbook, offering actionable insights on how to build data governance, fix bad data, improve data privacy, manage metadata, and navigate complex compliance environments like GDPR and CCPA. You'll learn how to stop reactive firefighting and start building proactive, sustainable systems that scale.

This data strategy guide covers essential topics, including:

• Data governance frameworks and real-world implementation tips
• How to align data architecture with business strategy
• Proven techniques for managing data quality and reducing redundancy
• Data retention and destruction best practices for legal compliance
• How to evaluate and acquire third-party data responsibly
• Creating a culture of data responsibility across your organization

Unlike many business analytics books, this one goes beyond theory with relatable "Data in Real Life" examples-from botched customer records to metadata mysteries-to make complex ideas simple and engaging. You'll laugh, cringe, and most importantly, learn.

If you've been frustrated by slow reports, inconsistent metrics, or failing AI tools, this book helps you identify the root causes-often buried in mismanaged or misunderstood data. Balance an approach that combines technical know-how with organizational psychology, emphasizing that data success is driven by people, process, and only then-technology.

Perfect for professionals seeking to master data strategy, data governance, or enterprise data management, Data in a Dangerous Time is the must-read manual for today's digital transformation.