A well-designed Master Data Management (MDM) architecture is essential for the creation of a consistent and accurate enterprise master data source. However, master data problems emerge primarily as a result of business units or departments having different conceptions of core business entities (e.g. customers). A data governance group is a crucial first step to help IT manage the political process of redefining business vocabulary and redesigning business processes.
This note explores the following data governance topics:
- Why MDM needs data governance.
- How data governance enables the MDM process.
- Who should be involved in the governance process.
With an understanding of master data related governance issues, IT will be able to better serve business data needs.