Chapter 8 - Data Modeling for MDM

Abstract

The data sources that contribute to the creation of the master representation may have variant representations, but at some point, there must be distinct models for the managing and subsequent sharing of master data. A core issue for master data management (MDM) is creating the consolidation models to collect and aggregate master data. This chapter discusses the issues associated with developing models for master data—from extraction, consolidation, persistence, and delivery. It explores the challenges associated with the variant existing data models and then examines some of the requirements for developing the models used for extraction, consolidation, persistence, and sharing. It is important to realize that becoming a skilled practitioner of data modeling requires a significant amount of training and experience. The purpose of this chapter is to highlight the more significant issues to be considered when developing models for MDM. The creation of data models to accommodate the master data integration and management processes requires a combination of the skills a data modeler has acquired. Further, it also requires the understanding of the business process requirements expected during a transition to a master data environment.