What do "data silos" represent in an organization?

Data silos represent isolated datasets within an organization that are difficult to access, share, and analyze across different departments or teams. When various business units maintain their own separate repositories of data and do not integrate or communicate with each other, these isolated systems emerge. This situation can lead to inefficiencies, as the potential value of data is not fully realized when it cannot be easily accessed or leveraged across the organization.

Efforts to break down data silos involve improving data integration and collaboration, allowing for a more cohesive view of information that enhances decision-making processes. The presence of data silos often highlights challenges in information flow and can impede communication, leading to inconsistent reports and a lack of comprehensive insights.