The Information Sherpa
Ira Whiteside is a Senior Data Architect and Governance Leader with over 40 years of technical and management experience. He specializes in bridging the gap between complex technical infrastructures and high-level business requirements, having led numerous organizations in implementing Data Governance, Master Data Management (MDM), and Business Intelligence strategies.
He is the pioneer of the “Information Value Chain”, a business-driven approach designed to turn data into a significant technology advantage. Throughout his career, he has served as a key technical partner for global brands, including Nike , McDonalds , Florida Blue andFIS Global.
Ira is recognized for his “Business-Driven , Metadata-Driven and Data Quality-Centric” approach, which ensures that data models remain aligned with organizational goals.
A frequent speaker and author, Ira has contributed extensively to the data community through web radio appearances, technical publications, and video presentations.
His current focus involves consulting on AI-ready data preparation, helping clients decipher and profile their data to enable advanced artificial intelligence capabilities.
The Metadata Mechanic
Scott Morgan is a seasoned data processing professional with over 40 years of experience in the design and implementation of data warehousing, business intelligence, and data quality initiatives. Throughout his career, he has moved from hands-on data analysis into director-level leadership, managing development teams to deliver complex technical projects for global organizations.
Scott’s core strengths lie in Data Architecture, Data Modeling and Data Profiling. He is a hands-on expert in relational database design, SQL, stored procedures, and database triggers.
Scott has delivered high-value architectural assets for major brands across the healthcare, hospitality, and transportation sectors, including CVS Health/Aetna , Walt Disney Parks and Resorts , Marriott Vacations, and Hertz Global.
Notable innovations from his portfolio include:
• Automation Utilities: Proprietary Excel macros for real-time QA of data requirements and identifying metadata deficiencies
• Modernization Blueprints: Developing comprehensive “How-To” guides for platform conversions, such as transitioning Netezza DDL to Hive DDL.
• Healthcare Data Standards: Modeling and populating extensive libraries of industry-standard code sets, including ICD-10, SNOMED, and LOINC, for clinical research infrastructures
A Certified SAFe® 5 Agilist, Scott holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management Science and Computer Systems. His approach combines rigorous technical standards—such as the creation of Enterprise Data Architecture Principles—with the agility needed to support modern, fast-paced development environments.