ICT Minister: Data governance is cornerstone of smart government

He also announced the development of a data governance framework aimed at creating harmony among government agencies, preventing duplicated efforts, and transforming data into a basis for managerial decision-making.

Hashemi made the remarks in a meeting with the Smart Administrative System Working Group held on Saturday at the Administrative and Recruitment Organization.

Referring to the ongoing development of the data governance and smart architecture framework, Hashemi stated, “The primary objective of this framework is to create alignment among executive agencies and prevent fragmented and overlapping digital transformation initiatives."

He stressed that data governance “is not merely a technical issue, and added, "A significant part of the success of this program depends on organizational restructuring, enterprise architecture, cultural development, training, and institutionalizing data-driven decision-making."

According to the ICT Minister, the framework consists of four main implementation packages:

* Defining the responsibilities of relevant organizations,

* Providing a technical reference model,

* Building the capabilities of managers and technical experts, and

* Establishing coordination mechanisms among government agencies.

"When selecting consultants and implementation partners, we will consider not only their technical capabilities but also their operational plans and experience in delivering large-scale national projects to ensure the framework can be effectively implemented across government agencies."

Hashemi reiterated the importance of using data for decision-making and said, "Simply collecting information does not create value. Data becomes effective only when it is used in policymaking, planning, and the management of the country."

He added that one of the framework's key objectives is to “reduce the administrative burden” on government agencies.

"We have sought to align existing initiatives while avoiding the creation of new obligations and unnecessary costs for executive bodies."

The ICT Minister also announced the development of a “standardized framework” for consultants, contractors, and government information systems.

"Standardization of processes, data, and digital services will enable interoperability among government systems and facilitate the implementation of data governance nationwide."

He concluded his remarks highlighting the closer collaboration among the ICT Ministry and the Administrative and Recruitment Organization, and the Planning and Budget Organization.

"It has encouraged executive agencies to engage more actively in the path of  digital transformation and has enabled national programs to be implemented with greater speed and coherence,” Hashemi noted.