Master Data Management

What is Master Data Management? (MDM) 

MDM is a combined IT and business function. The business owns the data and is responsible for BAU data quality. IT is responsible for managing the applications and infrastructure used to store data. As part of a professional team delivering a new application, you need to be aware of data ownership and data quality standards, as well as any ongoing or planned MDM work that could impact the project.

According to the size of the organisation, one person may manage the MDM function, or a team may be responsible for it. 

What are the objectives of MDM?

The objective of MDM is to establish a single source of truth for critical data elements. Examples include employees, products, customers, third parties, policies, suppliers, etc.

Data ownership and maintenance are key elements of the MDM strategy. Processes and procedures are documented and agreed upon for:

• Technology used in MDM.
• Data creation.
• Maintenance of data.
• Data distribution guidelines and constraints. 

This will lead to enhanced data quality and elimination of data duplication.

When should MDM be considered?

Include MDM in the project plans from the start. According to the scope and reach of the project, it will have a varying impact on the organisation’s MDM strategy and activities. Work with the MDM team during the initial stages to agree on actions and responsibilities. 

It may not seem like MDM is a consideration for an Agile development project, but data ownership is at the core of data quality assurance, preparation for cutovers, and BAU operations.

Good luck with your programmes, and please include MDM in your project plans.