New Zealand agency launches data literacy programme

Data Insight, a data analytics agency based in New Zealand, has unveiled The Data Academy, a continuing professional development (CPD) programme focused on enhancing data literacy.

This initiative marks the first agency-led effort of this nature in New Zealand's professional landscape. Designed with seven core modules, the programme aims to equip both business leaders and their staff with the necessary skills to navigate data interpretation, decision-making driven by data, AI applications, and data storytelling.

General Manager of Data Insight, Ben Winterbourne, emphasised the pervasive nature of data: "Data is everywhere. It should be put to good use, influencing decisions at every level of an organisation." He elaborated that The Data Academy was developed to address the notion that data can appear complex, providing trainings that foster a culture of data-informed decisions. "We're giving Kiwi businesses the tools they need to turn raw data into actionable insights," he added.

A distinctive aspect of The Data Academy is its focus on practical application.

Rather than relying solely on traditional workshops, the programme incorporates ongoing support, progress tracking, and outcome assessments using internal company data and realistic work scenarios. This methodology is intended to ensure that skills learned are effectively integrated into day-to-day operations.

Mr. Winterbourne detailed the goal of the programme: "Our goal is to be a trusted partner for organisations that want to become more data-driven. We help businesses develop skills, then come back and measure their effectiveness and durability. We're a data agency and we practice what we preach – data, when unassessed, is useless."

The programme is tailored for mid to large organisations in various industries and offers flexibility in its delivery. Modules can be conducted in two-hour sessions to minimise business disruptions, and the schedule can be customised to meet an organisation's specific needs, whether compressed into a few days or spread over several months.

Winterbourne shared insights from initial trials of the programme, noting the high value of the AI modules. "They equip employees with practical knowledge of AI tools and prompt engineering. We also found leaders gained the skills to identify how AI can be applied within their teams, ensuring their workforce is prepared to leverage AI in their day-to-day work."

He observed that as participants advance through the courses, improvements in decision-making, fostering of innovative cultures, and enhanced team communication naturally occur. "As courses progress and data literacy improves, companies see enhanced decision-making at all levels, a developing culture of innovation, and improved team collaboration and communication," Winterbourne remarked.

The curriculum of The Data Academy includes core modules such as Introduction to Data, Interpreting Data, Data Storytelling, Data-Driven Decision Making, Mastering the Art of Asking the Right Question, AI Literacy, and AI for Leaders. The programme begins with a survey designed to evaluate an organisation's existing use of data and AI to tailor training to specific needs based on data gaps and strengths.

Winterbourne concluded with the overarching intent of The Data Academy: "The goal of The Data Academy is to help teams use real-world examples and hands-on exercises to embed data literacy into everyday work. The capability to assess data reliability, leverage AI for insights, and make informed, data-driven decisions benefits everyone from the board level, to the C-suite to the shop floor."