Data-Driven Culture: The “Free Fall” Jump from Lojas Americanas

Abstract

Objective of the study: The case aims to lead students to reflect on the relevance of data-driven culture integrated with good governance practices in companies, highlighting the importance of using reliable data to support strategic decisions and strengthening ethics and respect for stakeholders. 

Methodology/approach: This teaching case study was constructed using secondary data obtained from news reports, information from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), trade associations, and publications by the retailer itself. Since this is a publicly traded company, there is a significant volume of public and updated information available. 

Relevance/Originality: The post-pandemic context, global wars, and other events have generated challenges that have a widespread impact on global consumption. In this scenario, retail companies, especially publicly traded ones, have been pressured to achieve efficiency in their results more quickly and assertively. This case study promotes discussions on the importance of data-driven companies making decisions based on business sustainability and meeting the interests of stakeholders, emphasizing the need for efficient and effective execution.

Main results:  At the end of the discussion, students should understand that data-driven culture is essential to the success of organizations and that their effectiveness is directly linked to good governance practices and alignment with the ethical interests of stakeholders. In addition, they will realize that effective governance goes beyond formal documents, manifesting itself in genuine behavior and practices in daily business, capable of boosting significant results. 

Theoretical/methodological contributions: Any course or discipline focused on organizational governance and a culture of results based on reliable data can use this case as discussion material in class. With the teaching notes and suggestions for organizing the content, teachers will be able to lead debates on the relevance of a data-driven culture. The proposal allows exploring the importance of combining good corporate governance practices with ethics and financial health, especially in a scenario of large volumes of data circulating inside and outside companies, ensuring benefits for both business and society.