Becoming a data-driven organization hinges more on overcoming cultural barriers than on technological challenges, according to a survey by NewVantage Partners. Key insights from an interview with Shelley Leibowitz, a former CIO and current board director, emphasize the agility and resilience that data-driven companies possess, enabling them to adapt swiftly to changing environments by making information readily accessible to those who can act on it. The transformation into a data-driven entity requires a cultural and organizational shift, focusing on aligning goals and incentives at all levels, particularly with middle management, which often faces the most disruption. It is vital to start this journey with a customer-centric focus and to measure progress through a concise set of critical metrics that reflect successful data utilization. The risks of not adopting a data-driven approach include falling behind in competitive markets, as customer expectations for seamless experiences continue to rise. Ultimately, success is measured by the ability to surprise and delight customers with insightful, actionable information that enhances the business's growth and sustainability.