Navigating Data Management at a Strategic, Tactical Level

Q: What are the key differentiators that set Alldatum apart from other players in the data management industry, both globally and in Mexico?

A: Alldatum is entirely dedicated to data management. We do not sell hardware or other solutions; we focus on understanding what the client needs in terms of data management. To execute a successful data strategy, we evaluate how it will impact all work processes. We also ensure that the technology is flexible enough to make the learning process friendlier. What sets Alldatum apart from the competition is that, despite selling technology, we are deeply committed to understanding the client's value proposition and guiding them through the process. We always provide comprehensive consultancy services, from the inception of data to the action the client will take. Some companies specialize in selling either technology or consultancy services but Alldatum integrates it all.

Q: What elements make a data strategy truly effective?

A: An effective strategy needs to be strategically aligned with the entire company. It is also crucial to take an approach that follows structural change management to ensure businesses have the necessary tools to implement the strategy. Finally, adhering to policies and regulations is crucial for an effective data strategy, especially given the growing concerns about personal data protection.

In summary, a strategy should be tailored to each client and flow from top to bottom: first, the business strategy, then the tactical part focused on data protection regulations and, finally, the operational element. Ideally, an effective data strategy would align these three levels effectively.

Q: What cybersecurity measures does Alldatum employ to ensure the protection of data and data centers?

A: Alldatum does not store anyone's data. Instead, we aim to work closely with each of our clients' security departments to meet their security standards and adapt to them. Internally, Alldatum’s employees sign confidentiality agreements that prevent them from sharing or disclosing the information collected by the company. All Alldatum computers are equipped with antivirus software, firewalls, VPNs and all necessary tools to ensure secure data handling.

However, most cybersecurity breaches are not caused by a lack of cybersecurity technology but are often the result of human error. Therefore, Alldatum conducts ongoing cybersecurity training to provide our employees with the knowledge needed to identify and effectively prevent such errors. We also use secure communication platforms, such as Monday and Slack, to avoid sending confidential client information through unreliable systems. Finally, we aim to align with each client's specific security policies while addressing them responsibly.

Q: How do you use Tibco EBX software to enhance data management and what specific benefits does it provide to your clients?

A: We distribute Tibco EBX software (Developed by Orchestra Networks) and have developed many solutions around this platform based on our customer needs and requirements. This data management platform offers features like metadata management, cataloging, integration, MDM with multidomain relationships and many other solutions and benefits. Furthermore, EBX offers a more user-friendly licensing approach, whereas many similar platforms restrict user access, limiting the value each client can derive from it.

Q: How has Alldatum leveraged emerging technologies to drive digital transformation and improve data management practices?

A: Alldatum is implementing machine learning models for cataloging and data consolidation purposes. We have also formed partnerships to enhance data observability, which is a recent innovation that greatly assists in data cleansing processes. Data observability uses intelligent models to analyze data and predict the root causes of data issues, effectively saving time and resources. This technology helps prevent data overload, often referred to as "data debt." Intelligent data observability models allow us to visualize the impact of data and optimize decision-making based on the collected information.

We also have partnered with SnapLogic, allowing us to use artificial intelligence tools to identify work patterns, enabling software developers to work more efficiently by providing task recommendations based on their past activities. Artificial intelligence, machine learning and data observability, among other technologies, have the potential to offer efficient solutions that increase data management efficiency and speed. However, before integrating these technologies into their operations, clients should have well-organized data to ensure correct results and analysis.

Data ownership can significantly influence outcomes. Thus, the ideal strategy involves understanding where the data originates, how it integrates, how it is analyzed and how it is delivered to the customer.

Q: What are the most common challenges that Mexican clients face when trying to develop effective data strategies?

A: In Mexico, the biggest challenge is determining the part of the data management strategy to focus on first. Some data integration strategies seek to purchase technology in the hope that it will solve all their problems. However, it is essential to first organize the data before attempting to solve everything in a single move or through a single technology. Before developing a Master Data Management (MDM) strategy, companies must first sit down and identify what they want from it. The data strategy should come from the top of the organization because it will require a cultural shift to implement it correctly.

Mexico is making progress in many data management strategies. From the smallest to the largest companies, all of them are embracing the cloud and thinking about data governance.

Q: As technology evolves, what areas of data management will require greater innovation and attention and how is Alldatum positioned to capitalize on these changes?

A: Data scientists and analysts need to have a deep understanding of the industry they are working in. Having technological expertise alone is not enough to help the client capitalize on the collected data. Alldatum focuses on the human side of technology, which is sometimes overlooked. We want to help clients extract value from information because if they succeed in their data strategies, their company will grow and they will make better decisions. If they make better decisions, there will be more job opportunities, which will positively impact the country's economy.

We have active plans to expand beyond Mexico and were recently hired by our first US client. We want Alldatum to be recognized as an expert in data but also as a humane company that seeks to provide opportunities for significant technological and professional advancement.