摘要：Way back in the 1980s corporations began collecting, combining, and crunching
data from sources throughout the enterprise. This approach was widely accepted
as a methodology that provides objectivity and transparency in decision-making.
Good processing of the garnered data paved way for improved analysis of trends
and patterns leading to better business and increased profit margins.
Corporations began investing in collecting, storing, processing and maintaining
enterprise wide data. The focus was always on the quality of data and the
process of converting it into knowledge that enables right decisions. It was
soon realized that a wide range of personal biases has an impact on the way
decisions are made. The entire process is replete with ethical dilemmas. This
paper provides a framework to understand the interplay of data, information,
personal biases, ethics and decision-making. This approach is suitable for every
individual, team, organization or a nation. Several years of turmoil in South
Africa make it imminent for it to take a fresh look at the way data is
transformed into knowledge. The leadership within South Africa has to arrive at
wise decisions that can withstand the scrutiny of generations to come.
