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Data & AI Training

Tool Scoping & Vendor Selection

Selecting the right data governance tool by focusing on outcomes, operating model and fit – not feature checklists.

Code: HIT1 Track: Implement a DG Tool Length: 1 hour (other formats available) Level: Foundation
Delivered with

Overview

Many organisations purchase data governance tools before they are clear on what problems they are trying to solve. The result is low adoption, unused functionality and frustration across business and technology teams.

This session focuses on how to scope governance tooling properly and run a structured, defensible vendor selection process. Participants learn how to translate governance objectives and operating models into clear tool requirements, evaluate vendors pragmatically, and avoid common selection pitfalls. The emphasis is on fit-for-purpose decision-making rather than tool hype.

Who it is for

  • Executives and sponsors approving governance tool investment.
  • Heads of Data, CDOs and governance leads leading tool selection.
  • Architects and technical leads evaluating platforms.
  • Procurement and vendor management teams supporting selection.

What you will learn

  • Why most governance tool selections fail.
  • How to scope tooling requirements from governance outcomes.
  • Which capabilities matter at different maturity stages.
  • How to separate essential needs from “nice to have” features.
  • How to run an effective RFI/RFP and vendor evaluation.
  • How tooling aligns to Gate 7: Governance and Gate 3: Data Quality.
  • How to make a defensible, auditable selection decision.

Agenda

  • Common failure patterns in governance tool selection.
  • Defining tooling needs from operating model and use cases.
  • Core capability areas: catalog, glossary, lineage, quality, workflow.
  • Maturity-based requirement prioritisation.
  • RFI/RFP design and evaluation criteria.
  • Vendor demonstrations: what to test and what to ignore.
  • Making and communicating the selection decision.
  • Q&A and discussion.

Delivery and format

Delivered as a 1 hour interactive session. Can be extended into a working session to define tool requirements and evaluation criteria specific to your organisation.

  • Format: Live virtual or on site.
  • Group size: Up to 25 participants recommended.
  • Optional: Follow-up tools optimisation and training workshop.

Next steps

This course is commonly paired with: HIT2 · Technical Implementation & Integration, DG4 · Metadata Management and HBG3 · THe DG Roadmap & Prioritisation