But, we need to make more data-driven decisions!

Decision making, Local Government

We hear it all the time—“We need to make more data-driven decisions!” Yet, despite having tons of data at our fingertips, we often don’t use it. Why?

Maybe it’s the same reason we don’t always seek advice when making big decisions. We like to think we’re open to input, but in reality, we often rely on gut instincts or past experiences.

Data-driven decision-making is a skill, not just a buzzword. It’s about knowing what data to use, where to find it, understanding its quality, and recognising how its relevance changes over time. It’s more than just pulling up a report—it’s about learning how to interpret and apply it effectively.

Just like leadership courses teach us to gather input from different perspectives before making key decisions, true data-driven thinking requires training and a mindset shift. Data isn’t the only factor, but it should be a key part of the equation—helping us challenge assumptions, remove biases, and make smarter choices.