These days, data is at the heart of everything we do. And yet, I see so many businesses struggle to turn all that data into something useful. Between transactional systems, customer insights, IoT devices, and social media feeds, the sheer volume of information can feel overwhelming. Without a clear strategy, data can quickly become more of a headache than a help, creating silos, inconsistencies, and slow decision-making.
That’s where the AWS Data Strategy Diagnostic (DSD) comes in.
What is the DSD?
The Data Strategy Diagnostic isn’t a product you can just buy off the shelf. It’s a guided, structured program designed to help organisations understand their current data maturity and chart a roadmap to become truly data-driven. At Cevo, we’re certified AWS partners to run this program, and we bring practical experience that turns assessment into action.
How does the DSD work?
From my experience, the program usually includes three key elements:
1. Comprehensive Assessment
At the core of the DSD is a detailed look at your data landscape. We usually focus on four main pillars:
- Mindset: How your company values and uses data.
- People: The skills, roles, and culture around data.
- Process: How data is collected, managed, and shared.
- Technology: The tools and infrastructure supporting your data.
3. Collaborative Workshop
We bring together technology leaders and other key stakeholders through a facilitated workshop. These sessions are invaluable for uncovering challenges, aligning goals, and making sure everyone’s voice is heard. Teams leave these sessions with a shared understanding of what’s working and what’s not.
3. Gap Analysis and Roadmap
Once we’ve assessed your data landscape, we highlight both strengths and gaps, then create a prioritised roadmap of initiatives that align with business objectives. No fluff, just actionable steps you can take immediately to get real results.
Why should my company run a DSD?
From my perspective, the biggest value is in what you get out of it:
- Real business value: The DSD helps you go beyond tools or data lakes. It’s about using data to solve problems, improve decision-making, and gain a competitive edge.
- Clarity and direction: Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing data strategy, the DSD provides tested recommendations informed by experience with over 1,000 AWS customers.
- Measurable progress: Knowing where your organisation currently sits in terms of data maturity ensures any future initiatives are well-targeted and effective.
In summary
The Data Strategy Diagnostic serves as a critical first step in an organisation’s journey toward true data maturity. By providing a clear, evidence-based view of the current data landscape and identifying key areas for improvement, it transforms an abstract goal into an actionable roadmap.
This comprehensive assessment empowers leaders to make informed decisions about their investments in people, processes, and technology, ensuring that every initiative is a deliberate step toward unlocking the full potential of their data as a strategic asset. Ultimately, the DSD is more than just a report; it’s the foundation for building a sustainable, data-driven culture that can adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving digital world.
How can I start?
The first step is simple – contact us! You can schedule your Data Strategy Diagnostic session with us here.
The program is a specialised offering, and it’s delivered by a select group of AWS partners who have the expertise to guide businesses through the assessment and strategy-building process.
Juzel is a Principal Data and Analytics Engineer with over 22 years experience in Data analysis, design and development of end to end Data solutions, and most recently for Modern Data Platforms like Databricks with a demonstrated history working in the non-for-profit, insurance, banking sector, manufacturing and IT Consultancy.
