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With Michael Shaw — SVP, Data & AI at Dow Jones

How should organisations measure the real value of their Data and AI investments?

In this episode, Ben Parker speaks with Michael Shaw about one of the biggest challenges facing Data and AI leaders: defining what success actually looks like.

Drawing on experience at Dow Jones, Google, Facebook and Instacart, Michael explores how organisations can connect Data initiatives to business objectives, balance quick wins with long-term value, and set realistic expectations with stakeholders.

The conversation also examines why ROI goes beyond financial returns, the importance of strong data foundations and adoption, and how AI is changing expectations around the value Data teams are expected to deliver.

You’ll hear practical insights on:

• How to define success for Data and AI initiatives 
• Connecting Data investments to business outcomes 
• Balancing quick wins with long-term value 
• Why Data Quality and Governance affect ROI 
• Driving adoption across the wider organisation 
• Measuring value beyond direct financial returns 
• How AI is changing expectations of ROI 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:58 Michael's career and leadership journey
28:08 Defining success and ROI in Data
32:04 Why strong Data foundations matter
33:05 Balancing stakeholder expectations and quick wins
44:31 Driving adoption and cultural change
54:31 How AI is changing expectations of ROI

Thank you for listening!