When it comes to Microsoft 365 E7, we know strategy matters

Microsoft 365 E7 licences are being pushed by Microsoft to organisations ready to scale their adoption of AI, with tempting discounts being dangled to enterprise customers. The upgrade can feel like a no-brainer based on the initial numbers, but only if your organisation can maximise value, reduce risk and benefit from the range of features available.

 

A thorough understanding is critical before committing to E7. Begin with Gartner® Microsoft 365 E7: Balance the Opportunity, Negotiation Leverage and Pitfalls.

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4 Actions to Establish Effective Data Governance Roles

In an AI centric world

Many organisations recognise that data governance is critical for analytics, compliance and AI readiness, yet fewer than half report success with their stewardship programmes. The Gartner® research highlights 'Data and analytics leaders fail to establish effective data stewardship and governance because they assign roles without changing incentives, habits, or ownership models.'

Access Gartner® insights on 4 Actions to Establish Effective Data Governance Roles, which explores how data and analytics leaders can create sustainable governance programmes by focusing on people, not just processes and technology.

 

Why It Matters

 

As organisations expand their use of AI, trusted and well-governed data is becoming a business imperative. The most successful governance programmes recognise that governance is not a technology project, it is a behaviour-change initiative that requires clear ownership, accountability and engagement across the organisation.

Our key takeaways
  • Start with what exists – Many governance activities are already happening informally. Recognising and formalising them speeds adoption.
  • Keep roles simple – Clear, relatable definitions help teams understand responsibilities and improve accountability.
  • Incentivise stewardship – Recognition, objectives and leadership support make governance visible and valued.
  • Build shared accountability – Co-create responsibilities with stakeholders and use tools like RACI to establish clear ownership and avoid bottlenecks.
 
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This graphic was published by Gartner, Inc. as part of a larger research document and should be evaluated in the context of the entire document. The Gartner document is available upon request from bluesource.

 

 

Putting Governance Into Practice

 

 

Governance success isn't about deploying technology alone it's about combining the right tools with the right operating model. 

Using Microsoft Purview, Microsoft Entra and our Advanced Support services, we help organisations strengthen data governance, improve visibility, establish ownership and create the foundations needed for secure AI adoption. 

From governance assessments and roadmap development to ongoing optimisation and support, we help turn governance ambitions into measurable business outcomes. 

Whether you're just beginning your governance journey or looking to maximise your Microsoft investment, our team can help you assess your current state and build a roadmap for long-term success.

Book in a current state assessment
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Microsoft 365 E7 Demystified: What You Really Get and Whether You’re Ready for It

To get the expert view into Microsoft 365 E7 licences including; what you’re really buying, what you need to watch out for, when to buy and how to maximise value from day one. Register for our upcoming webinar  

 

Reserve your spot

 

 

Gartner®, 4 Actions to Establish Effective Data Governance Roles, By Sarah Turkaly, 2 February 2026. Gartner is a trademark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates..