The Convergence of AI, Data Privacy, and Information Governance

Looking ahead at information management trends, I see three key areas converging: AI governance, data governance, and information governance. This convergence isn't just theoretical - it's reshaping how we handle information at the Central Bank of the Bahamas. 

Defining the Governance Frameworks

Information Governance

According to AIIM, information governance is a methodology for handling decisions and information that helps businesses attain their goals. Gartner describes information governance as “the specification of decision rights and an accountability framework to ensure appropriate behavior in the valuation, creation, storage, use, archiving, and deletion of information. It includes the processes, roles and policies, standards, and metrics that ensure the effective and efficient use of information in enabling an organization to achieve its goals.” 

Information governance includes data governance and AI governance within its framework. 

Data Governance

DAMA International defines data governance as "the exercise of authority, control, and shared decision-making (planning, monitoring, and enforcement) over the management of data assets."

Iron Mountain defines data governance as "a set of policies, processes, and practices to maintain an enterprise data model that addresses data quality, integrity, reliability, and usability within an organization."

Data privacy - a key consideration for data governance - has become inseparable from both AI and information governance. As we integrate more AI tools, we must be increasingly vigilant about data protection. The ethical use of AI requires strict adherence to privacy standards and careful consideration of how we handle sensitive information. 

AI Governance

AI Governance might also include data governance, but, as IBM explains, it importantly "address risks such as bias, privacy infringement and misuse while fostering innovation and building trust."

AI integration is transforming our workflows, but it demands careful oversight. While AI offers efficiency gains, we must ensure the underlying data is authentic and properly governed. This means implementing robust validation processes and ethical guidelines for AI usage. 

Unifying Governance Frameworks 

Previously, we treated data governance, information governance, and AI governance as separate domains. Now, they're merging under a unified framework.

Information governance serves as the umbrella, with data and AI governance as essential components. This integration reflects the reality that we can't effectively manage one without considering the others. 

Continuing the Convergence Conversation

It's vital to understand how information governance, data governance, and AI governance relate. If you are interested in learning more, check out the AI+IM Global Summit for a groundbreaking panel discussion, "Convergence by Design: Unifying AI, Data, and Information Governance for the Intelligence Era."

Led by Beverly Wright of Wavicle Data Solutions, this expert panel brings together governance leaders from Equifax, Honeywell, and InterContinental Hotels Group to explore how traditionally distinct governance practices are evolving in response to AI adoption. The session will offer practical insights into building integrated governance frameworks that enhance innovation while maintaining robust oversight. Through real-world examples and proven strategies, participants will learn how to foster cross-functional collaboration and develop unified governance models that scale effectively. Don't miss this critical conversation about shaping governance practices that are as sophisticated and interconnected as the technologies they oversee.

This blog post is based on an original AIIM OnAir podcast. When recording podcasts, AIIM uses AI-enabled transcription in Zoom. We then use that transcription as part of a prompt with Claude Pro, Anthropic’s AI assistant. AIIM staff (aka humans) then edit the output from Claude for accuracy, completeness, and tone. In this way, we use AI to increase the accessibility of our podcast and extend the value of great content.