Episode 513.6: PM Trend 2025 #6 - Data Ethics as Your Core Competency
Many organizations will realize that using AI and big data without ethical standards can lead to biases, compliance issues, and costly mistakes. In 2025, PMs will take the first real steps toward owning data ethics—though the volume on this trend is only slightly turned up. We may have to wait until 2026 until this is a full roar.
What’s Driving This Trend
The explosion of AI-driven workflows means projects are awash in massive datasets, including sensitive information about customers and employees. Project managers, who oversee data-driven projects, increasingly become the gatekeepers of responsible data handling—ensuring privacy, fairness, and compliance.
Yet, in 2025 this awareness won’t be fully mainstream; it will just start to gain traction as more teams recognize that “ethics” can’t be left solely to the legal department or IT. As frameworks evolve and regulations tighten, PMs who understand the ins and outs of data ethics will be better positioned to mitigate risks and protect their organizations.
What You Can Do to Get Ahead of the Trend
- Review and update your project’s data policies, even if it’s just a basic code of conduct for how data is collected and stored.
- Engage legal or compliance teams early so you can spot potential ethical pitfalls before they disrupt your project.
- Stay informed about emerging data ethics guidelines in your industry—adapt them to your project as best you can.
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