Unveiling Dark Data in Organisations: Sources, Challenges, and Mitigation Strategies

Letlhogonolo Marumolwa and Carl Marnewick
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Letlhogonolo Marumolwa: University of Johannesburg, South Africa
Carl Marnewick: University of Johannesburg, South Africa

International Journal of Service Science, Management, Engineering, and Technology (IJSSMET), 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-32

Abstract: The rapid growth of dark data in organisations presents both opportunities and challenges. While dark data contains hidden insights that could improve decision-making, it also leads to compliance, security, and storage risks. This study explores the sources of dark data, its challenges to organisations, and strategies for mitigation of its risks. The findings reveal that legacy systems, unstructured data, and governance gaps are major contributors to dark data accumulation. The study highlights artificial intelligence-driven solutions, role-based access controls, and improved data literacy as effective strategies for addressing dark data challenges. Organisations can enhance data visibility, reduce redundant storage, and improve overall data management by implementing structured governance frameworks and leveraging automation. The study offers propositions that align with organisational implications and outline a roadmap for better utilisation of dark data.

Date: 2025
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