Operational MDM

The results and observations from using the analytical MDM should serve as the basis for implementing the operational MDM. In the operational release, the MDM already has a much more active role. Beyond just observing and analyzing data quality, it is the main system in which master data management processes are implemented. In Master Data Management, the hierarchies, attributes, source parameters, etc. necessary to ensure consistency and high data quality are defined. The system will also make it possible to link the data used in all systems to their sources.

Important to the operational approach to MDM is the definition and implementation of master data management processes. These should be based on the results collected by the MDM unit. Analogously from the first step it is crucial to involve the right business users. The associated business owner of the data area must be responsible for unambiguous and appropriate interpretation of the data.

The full set of reference master data must then be shared with other systems and users (MDM subscribers). The operational MDM is the central source of all data dictionaries (although, depending on the implementation methodology, it need not be the place where they are created) and their proper business interpretation.

The expected outcome of the development of operational MDM should be an increase in data quality, automation of master data management processes and thus a gradual fading of importance of the analytical MDM. Ultimately, the implementation of MDM should generate changes in the organization that isolate the business units responsible for master data quality.