From Skepticism to Strategy: Building the Data-Driven Culture Local Government Needs

Many local governments recognise the promise of data but struggle to turn that potential into real-world impact. Between legacy systems, cultural resistance, and limited resources, it’s easy for “data-driven” to sound like a distant ideal. Gurdip Sodhi argues that the journey from scepticism to strategy begins not with dashboards, but with people — and the culture they build together. This piece reveals how leaders can cultivate trust, align teams, and use data as a force for smarter, more transparent decision-making. It’s a must-read for anyone committed to shaping the future of public service through insight and innovation.