The keys to an MDM project

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In this post we address the keys to the success of a Master Data Management project from a practical perspective.
An MDM project focuses on Master Data Management , which, as is known, encompasses both a set of tools and processes intended to manage data found in different systems. Its great advantage is its ability to centralize management in a single master copy and then synchronize it with those applications that use the same data.
Its application helps to tackle problems related to the plurality of data systems that work with similar data and manage them themselves. In other words, we transcend the siloed management system and when we talk about a specific client or product, all systems will identify it as such.

With this, we carry out master data management that will avoid duplicate data and other incompatibilities or errors that unreliable data usually present, with the risks that working with them entails.

Ideally, therefore, an MDM project will offer a comprehensive solution . That is, its scope will span the business’s source and storage systems to consolidate a single record. If the MDM project is successful, it will be that golden copy that offers a realistic version of the business’s data.

However, this is actually a final objective, which is usually overseas chinese in europe data gradually. Before having reliable information throughout the organization, capable of offering a homogeneous and truthful vision, there is a long and complex road ahead that we can simplify with a progressive implementation.



MDM: How to create a single view of the customer, improve the customer experience thanks to the management of your master data


The main keys for an MDM project
One of the keys to success in an MDM project is to start small. A gradual approach is generally recommended , both to obtain approval for the budget, which will be more economical, and to simplify the work and therefore increase the chances of everything going as planned.

A realistic approach involves determining what we need immediately and what objectives, even if desirable, are beyond our reach. This is how we determine the framework for action, while establishing clear references for future projects.

Within ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, for example, it is common to focus on product or customer categories. As a general idea, the choice will respond to the most pressing needs.

Once the entity or category has been identified and the model, attributes and hierarchies established, in accordance with the business rules, the process flows and user permissions will be established. In addition, those responsible for maintaining the records will be assigned.



From a technical perspective, the typical MDM project will include the following phases:

Data access: identification of the sources to be included in the project.
Discovery and data collection.
Transformation, both at the input and at the output.
Error detection: consolidate, search for consistency, integrity, deduplication, etc.
Clean data: enrichment, validation rules and other data quality initiatives.
Mastering: creating a golden record or gold copy.
Deliver: Synchronize master data for applications and data warehouses.


It is also essential to have the necessary human resources , including competent technicians and people from the business who know the entity well. Both are vital for the success of the business, since this type of project requires an ad hoc technical implementation that also has the support of senior management. Otherwise, the project is doomed to failure before it even begins.

If the definition of the project and the phases outlined are key to the success of an MDM project , the steps taken to implement change management are no less important, among which it will be important to carry out processes, job descriptions, establish performance objectives, overcome resistance and determine new data policies and responsibilities.