MEDIA RELEASE

Wednesday 18 September 2019 – ACS (Australian Computer Society) today announced the acquisition of leading data-driven associations ADMA (Association for Data-Driven Marketing and Advertising), IAPA (Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia), D+TC (Digital + Technology Collective) and DGA (Data Governance Australia).

With over 600 brands as members, the associations are arguably the leading data-driven industry associations in Australia.

Yohan Ramasundara, ACS President, believes the acquisition will bolster Australia’s global position in digital innovation, technology and data-driven business. “Today, data and technology-driven solutions are paramount to business and customer success – and the best solutions come about when sectors work together to deliver improved customer outcomes.

“By adding ADMA, IAPA, D+TC and DGA into the ACS fold, we will be able to heighten awareness of data governance, privacy and cyber resilience across the broader Australian economy, while providing end-to-end data-driven solutions for ACS members and those of ADMA, IAPA, D+TC and DGA,” said Ramasundara.

On the announcement, Andrea Martens, ADMA CEO, said the move would enable ADMA, IAPA, D+TC and DGA to expand their positions in the industry. “In guiding the custodians of the data and technology systems that feed the data value chain, ACS is like a turbo charger for our associations that support the capture, storage, access, analysis, insights and action of data.

“A close affiliation with ACS further strengthens our ability to support the data engineers, analysts, scientists and data managers that drive greater speed to market on AI-led innovation,” said Martens.

Added Ramasundara, “We are very excited to work with the associations to leverage best practice and drive data-driven insights for professionals, particularly through a more collaborative CMO - CIO/CDO relationship. We can also strengthen our value offering to all our members through globally renowned education and events and specialist expertise in data-driven marketing, governance and analytics.”

#ENDS

Further information

Troy Steer, Director of Corporate Affairs and Public Policy

M – 0417 173 740

E – troy.steer@acs.org.au

About ACS and the Associations:

ACS is the professional association for Australia's technology sector. More than 45,000 ACS members work in business, education, government and the community. ACS exists to create the environment and provide the opportunities for members and partners to succeed. ACS strives for technology professionals to be recognised as drivers of innovation in our society, relevant across all sectors, and to promote the formulation of effective policies on technology and related matters. Visit www.acs.org.au for more information.

The Association for Data-Driven Marketing and Advertising (ADMA) is the preeminent marketing industry association, renowned for enabling members, irrespective of industry or scale of enterprise, to unlock organisational growth and realise the potential of data-driven marketing.

The Institute of Analytics Professionals of Australia (IAPA) is the professional organisation for the analytics industry in Australia, incorporating business analytics and data mining across multiple disciplines and sectors. Its mission is to unite, inform, support and promote analytics professionals in Australia.

Data Governance Australia (DGA) was founded in 2016 to establish industry standards and benchmarks around the collection, use and management of data in Australia. DGA provides education, thought leadership and advocacy services to its members to promote and foster the understanding of how data can be used responsibly to drive innovation and competitive advantage whilst complying with all regulatory requirements.

Digital + Technology Collective (DTC) draws together Australia’s digital and technology experts including pioneering digital and technology-focused powerhouses, agencies, in-house digital teams and major industry suppliers. As the driving force for great ideas in digital and digital technology, DTC is committed to creating a culture that allows for innovation and opportunity to thrive.