In the ongoing quest to simplify information management, formalizing the program can go a long way. A formalized enterprise information management program has the potential to deliver consistent data throughout an organization and turn the data into a strategic advantage, advises Stephen Boschulte at CIOUpdate.

Companies generally don't have a hard time getting enough information to make decisions and minimize risk. The difficulty often is in having too much information. Using data optimally requires collaboration among business program management, technology program management and enterprise information management, Boschulte writes.

Ideally, between six and eight people will come together to represent these three areas of the organization. It is up to them to facilitate meetings between the business and technical groups, and they should influence both sides. This team is also responsible for coming up with recommendations for information-related projects. Each area has a list of responsibilities that lead toward the common deliverables.

By bringing the three areas of the organization together in a collaborative initiative, the business needs and the cost technical support are put in the same light. 

For more, see:
- Stephen Boschulte's article at CIOUpdate

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