Addressing challenges in Master Data Management

Andoret Venter, principle consultant for BIA, recently addressed the audience at the SAS User Forum, in Johannesburg, where she debunked the myths around Master Data Management (MDM).

"The road to a successful MDM implementation can be a bumpy one as it involves understanding the master data life cycle, the various implementation architecture options, strategies and methodologies as well as how to measure progress and the continued success of the implementation," says Venter.

Beginning with the basics, Venter highlighted that an MDM programme is 90% business consulting and 10% technology. Master data consists of objects used in different applications within a business, ranging from customers and products through to suppliers and contact mechanisms.

"The master data life cycle needs to be understood by thinking of data as an entity; it is created, updated, archived and then deleted resulting in one full life cycle," says Venter.

To manage this data during its life cycle is the crucial part of MDM; you need methods, tools and business applications to manage your data, she adds.

Some of the challenges in MDM consist of:

* Organisational challenges like creating a strategic vision, data ownership and change management.

* Operational challenges such as data quality management, data standards management and data governance and integration.

* Technology challenges involve selecting an MDM architecture style, transitioning to a new infrastructure and performance issues.

* Environmental challenges include regulatory challenges, political agenda, the country`s own infrastructure as well as education and training.

"The best way to address all these challenges is through communication, effective change management, implementing proper standards, policies and procedures and selecting the right technology," adds Venter.

Highlighting the fact that MDM is more than just technology, companies need to see beyond the technology angle. MDM helps all organisations get closer to the aim of a single version of their master data that works optimally in a South African environment.