From Data to Smarter Decisions: What Latvia Can Learn From Malta

Artificial intelligence is often perceived as a magic bullet, promising increased productivity simply through licensing and implementation. However, the practical value of AI hinges on users' capacity to effectively work with data. Without a foundational understanding of data, its quality, and its application, even powerful AI tools fall short of delivering their full potential. Much like a calculator cannot replace the understanding of mathematical principles, AI cannot substitute for data-driven thinking. This begins with fundamental daily practices: grasping the distinction between structured and unstructured data, adhering to uniform principles when entering information into systems, and evaluating why specific data is collected and whether it is subsequently used in analysis and decision-making. Inconsistent data entry, accumulation of unused data over years, or poorly defined metrics result in digital chaos rather than data-driven governance.