Case Study

Empowering Businesses with Data Fluency for Strategic Growth

Recognising the growing importance of data, AI, and automation technologies for regional businesses, York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has entrusted Data Stream to help transform local businesses into data-driven organisations. In partnership with the Growth Hub, Data Stream is delivering hands-on workshops and one-on-one support to equip businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve their strategic objectives through enhanced data fluency.

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has identified the critical role that data, AI, and automation technologies play in driving the growth and competitiveness of businesses across the region. To ensure that local businesses can fully leverage these technologies, they have selected Data Stream as their trusted partner to facilitate the adoption of data-driven strategies and practices.

Data Stream, in collaboration with the Growth Hub, is leading a series of workshops and one-on-one sessions tailored to the unique needs of businesses in North Yorkshire. Our approach begins with a deep dive into each business’s existing data ecosystem, engaging directly with key stakeholders to understand their current capabilities and challenges. Through these engagements, we help businesses develop a comprehensive data strategy that aligns with their broader corporate objectives.

The next step involves a detailed assessment of the businesses’ data infrastructure. Many businesses struggle with disparate systems that are not optimised for the strategic use of data. Data Stream reimagines and redesigns these infrastructures, combining new and existing technologies to minimise costs while ensuring that the infrastructure is robust, scalable, and fit for purpose.

Following the infrastructure upgrade, we focus on data quality and analysis. By working closely with each business, we identify the critical data points that need to be captured and ensure that this data is accurate, accessible, and aligned with the strategic goals of the organisation. This approach ensures that businesses can make informed, data-driven decisions that enhance their operational efficiency and strategic outcomes.

Understanding that a successful data transformation also depends on the people involved, Data Stream places a strong emphasis on upskilling and engaging the business’s employees. We conduct “over the shoulder” observations across various departments to identify practical challenges and opportunities, followed by targeted training sessions to equip employees with the necessary skills to fully leverage the new data systems.

Cultural buy-in is also crucial for the success of these initiatives. Many businesses in North Yorkshire have faced challenges with previous technology implementations, leading to skepticism and reluctance to embrace new changes. Data Stream UK addresses these concerns by actively involving all stakeholders from the start, ensuring that their insights and experiences shape the process. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, leading to a smoother and more effective adoption of new systems and processes.

Finally, Data Stream ensures that all data is securely managed and compliant with relevant regulations through robust data governance practices. By democratising data access among stakeholders, we empower businesses to harness the full potential of their data assets while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.

Through these comprehensive, tailored sessions, Data Stream is helping North Yorkshire businesses build the data fluency they need to achieve their strategic objectives. By centralising data, enhancing infrastructure, upskilling employees, and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making, we are paving the way for these businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

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