Data Architecture, Data Warehousing, and Master Data Management

by Ken Orr

In large organizations everywhere, there is increasing interest in data architecture and associated issues such as data warehousing strategies and master data management. This Executive Report by Ken Orr addresses the nature of data architecture, how "operational data" and "informational data" differ, and where data warehousing fits in. The report asserts that over the last 30-40 years, there has been a number of profound developments in data architecture: the emergence of database management systems; the emergence of relational database systems; and the emergence of data warehousing. Additionally, we discuss how master data management systems and data hubs are becoming mainstream ways of linking vital information.