In today’s fast-moving world, relying solely on intuition just doesn’t cut it. While experience and instinct still have their place, the most effective decisions are grounded in data because data brings clarity, objectivity, and confidence.
But being data-informed doesn’t mean being data-blind. It’s not about letting the numbers rule all. It’s about using the right data at the right time to make smarter decisions.
What is data-informed decision making?
Data-informed decision making is the practice of using data as one key input – alongside experience, stakeholder needs, and strategic goals – to guide choices and actions. It’s about being curious, asking better questions, and using evidence to reduce guesswork.
It’s not the same as being data-driven, which can sometimes suggest a rigid reliance on metrics at the expense of nuance. Data-informed decision makers ask: What does the data tell us? What doesn’t it tell us? And what else do we need to consider before acting?
Why it matters
When decisions are based on opinions or assumptions alone, you run the risk of misjudging the situation, misallocating resources, or missing opportunities. Data helps illuminate patterns, spot risks, and track whether something is working or not.
For example:
- A learning team can use completion rates and engagement data to refine training modules that aren’t hitting the mark.
- A sales leader might analyse deal cycle times to better forecast performance and coach reps where they’re getting stuck.
- A people team could use pulse survey results to spot emerging issues in team morale before they become serious problems.
In each case, data doesn't replace human judgment – it sharpens it.
The right data matters
Not all data is created equal. Being data-informed means knowing what data to trust and what to ignore.
It’s easy to get caught up in vanity metrics, such as high page views or massive attendance, without digging deeper into what they mean. Are people engaged? Are they learning something? Are they changing behaviour?
Choosing the right data means aligning it to your goals. If you're trying to improve performance, track behaviour change. If you're trying to boost engagement, look for repeat participation and feedback quality – not just raw numbers.
Building a data-informed culture
Helping teams make better decisions with data isn’t about turning everyone into analysts. It’s about making data part of the conversation.
Ask:
- What data do we have to support this idea?
- What patterns or trends are emerging?
- How will we know if it’s working?
When teams start thinking this way, decisions become more transparent, learning loops get tighter, and outcomes improve.
Being data-informed doesn't mean choosing between data and experience—it means using both. Informed decisions are confident decisions. And when teams have the skills and mindset to use data well, they’re better equipped to navigate complexity, make a case for change, and get things right.
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Whether your team is new to the space or looking to deepen their expertise, UTS offers a range of Analytics and Data microcredentials. Contact us to find out more about how we can upskill your people’s data skills. |
