The Definitive Guide to Data Partnership Strategy
Data Leverage
Unlocking the Surprising Growth Potential of Data Partnerships
One of the only books in the world dedicated entirely to building and monetizing data partnerships. Learn how to identify data assets you already own, value them properly, and structure deals that create lasting partnerships.
ISBN 978-1-7329917-0-5 (paperback). Published 2019.
The DataSmart Method
Four StepsMost companies sit on valuable data assets without knowing how to monetize them. This four-step framework gives you a repeatable process for turning data into partnerships.
Identify
Map your intrinsic and extrinsic data assets across 15 categories.
Value
Place each asset in the right bucket: $0, $10K, $100K, or $1M+.
Structure
Choose the right partnership model from 10 proven structures.
Protect
Implement safeguards that protect both data and reputation.
What Leaders Say
The EndorsementsData Leverage is a revelation. You know your company's data is valuable, but until you read this book, you won't be able to maximize that value. This is your GPS for data deals -- it will get you safely to a very profitable destination. Keep it nearby, because you'll be referring to every step of the way.
Josh Bernoff, Bestselling author of five business strategy books including Groundswell and Writing Without Bullshit
There can be no book more packed with practical, common sense guidance than Data Leverage. It is a must read at every level in every industry.
Bob Herrmann, President & CEO, Discovery Data
Data is like electricity for businesses: essential to almost every aspect of its operations, but deadly if mishandled. Although data partnerships increase the potential reward, most companies are paralyzed by the increased risk. In Data Leverage, the Ward brothers have created a manual to help you understand the opportunity, navigate the minefield of risks, and unlock the value of data partnerships.
Dave Frankland, Co-author of Marketing to the Entitled Consumer
The Ward Brothers totally nail it in their book "Data Leverage". The currency of the 21st century won't be bricks, clicks, social media followers, or impressions; but in the scale and value of the data you produce as a business and the value it delivers to others.
Michael Carter, CEO, BizEquity
What's Inside
Twelve ChaptersPractical guidance for data partnership strategy
Understanding Data Partnerships
Why you need a data partnership strategy and the DataSmart Method.
Data and People
Aligning your organization to new data opportunities.
Intrinsic Data
Identifying the data assets you already own.
Extrinsic Data
Identifying external data opportunities.
Valuing Data Assets
The four buckets, from $0 to $1M+.
Presenting Data
The three files that prove your data's value.
Legal Considerations
Contracts, trade secrets, and protection.
Typical Data Partnerships
Ten partnership structures explained.
The Innovator Data Partnership
When you're the source vs. the platform.
Mutually Beneficial Partnerships
Customer, operational, and marketing-driven deals.
Channel Data Partnerships
Affiliate and reseller models.
Protecting Data and Reputations
Security, audits, and safeguards.
What Readers Say
From AmazonReviews from Amazon readers
I will never look at data the same way again...
As a 20-year veteran in the Martech industry, I've seen the explosion of data and its impact on business strategy. This book brilliantly articulates how companies can unlock value from their data assets through partnerships. The DataSmart Method provides a clear framework that any organization can follow. Whether you're a data-rich company looking to monetize or a data-hungry company seeking partnerships, this book is essential reading.
Brian R. · March 22, 2019
Great to get both sides of the data partnership story
The unique perspective of having both a data strategist and an attorney write this book together provides incredible value. You get the business strategy alongside the legal considerations, which is exactly what you need when entering data partnerships. Practical, actionable, and comprehensive.
Angelo S. · February 2, 2020
Incredible way to look at and value YOUR data!
This book changed how I think about data assets entirely. The valuation framework alone is worth the price of admission. If you've ever wondered whether your company's data could be worth something to others, this book will show you exactly how to figure that out and what to do about it.
Albert · July 28, 2020
Amazing Book
The Ward Brothers deliver a masterclass in data strategy. This isn't theory - it's a practical playbook built from real experience. Every business leader needs to understand these concepts as data becomes the currency of modern business.
Michael Carter · February 17, 2019
About the Authors
The Ward BrothersGet Datable
One short letter, when there is something worth saying.