CDMP-RMD Practice Exam Questions with Answers Reference And Master Data Management Exam Certification

Ensuring high-quality reference data is critical for maintaining data accuracy, consistency, and reliability across an organization. The best way to achieve this is through robust data governance and stewardship practices.

Government Sources:

While government sources can be reliable, they are not the only sources of high-quality reference data. Relying solely on them may limit the comprehensiveness of reference data.

Drop-Down Menus:

Drop-down menus can help prevent invalid data entry but do not address the overall quality and governance of reference data.

Data Governance and Stewardship:

Implementing data governance and stewardship ensures that reference data is managed according to defined policies, standards, and procedures.

Data governance involves establishing a framework for decision-making, accountability, and control over data management processes.

Data stewardship assigns responsibility for data quality, ensuring that data is accurate, consistent, and fit for purpose.

Standard Reference Data (ISO):

Using standard reference data from organizations like ISO can enhance data quality, but it should be part of a broader governance strategy.

External Data Providers:

External data providers can offer high-quality reference data, but relying solely on them without proper governance can lead to inconsistencies and data quality issues.

Definitions and Context:

Data Profiling: This is the process of examining data from existing data sources and collecting statistics or informative summaries about that data.

Master Data Management (MDM): Establishing MDM involves processes and technologies for managing the non-transactional data entities of an organization.

Explanation:

Data profiling helps to understand the data's characteristics and quality by analyzing data values and comparing them to defined valid values.

This process is crucial in establishing a Master Data Management (MDM) system as it ensures the data adheres to the defined standards and is clean, accurate, and ready for integration into the MDM system.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge, 2nd Edition, Chapter 11: Master and Reference Data Management.

Kimball, R. & Caserta, J. (2004). The Data Warehouse ETL Toolkit: Practical Techniques for Extracting, Cleaning, Conforming, and Delivering Data.

An authoritative system where data consumers can obtain reliable data as an alternative to the system of record is known as a "Trusted System."

System of Record:

The system of record (SOR) is the authoritative data source for a particular data element or dataset. It ensures data integrity, accuracy, and consistency.

Trusted System:

A trusted system provides reliable data that consumers can use for transactions and analysis. It acts as a reference point and may serve as an alternative to the system of record.

It ensures that users have access to high-quality, consistent, and trustworthy data, which is essential for decision-making and operational processes.

Other Options:

System of Reference:Generally refers to a system used for lookup and reference purposes but not necessarily authoritative for transactions.

System of Origin:The original source of data before it is integrated into other systems.

Source System:Any system that contributes data to an enterprise system but is not specifically a trusted or authoritative source.

System of Use:The system where data is actively used and consumed for various business processes.

Adhering to ISO standards for metadata is important for both in-house and commercial tools for the following reasons:

Standardization:

Uniformity: ISO standards ensure that metadata is uniformly described and managed across different tools and systems.

Interoperability: Facilitates interoperability between different tools and systems, enabling seamless data exchange and integration.

Guidance and Best Practices:

Structured Approach: Provides a structured approach for defining and managing metadata, ensuring consistency and reliability.

Compliance and Quality: Ensures compliance with internationally recognized best practices, enhancing data quality and governance.

References:

ISO/IEC 11179: Information technology - Metadata registries (MDR)

Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK), Chapter 7: Master Data Management

DAMA International, "The DAMA Guide to the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK)"

Master and Reference Data are forms of Data Architecture. Here’s why:

Data Architecture Definition:

Structure and Design: Data architecture involves the structure and design of data systems, including how data is organized, stored, and accessed.

Components: Encompasses various components, including data models, data management processes, and data governance frameworks.

Role of Master and Reference Data:

Core Components: Master and Reference Data are integral components of an organization’s data architecture, providing foundational data elements used across multiple systems and processes.

Organization and Integration: They play a critical role in organizing and integrating data, ensuring consistency and accuracy.

References:

Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK), Chapter 7: Master Data Management

DAMA International, "The DAMA Guide to the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK)"

A registry in the context of Master Data Management (MDM) is a centralized index that maintains pointers to master data located in various systems of record. This type of architecture is commonly referred to as a "registry" model and allows organizations to create a unified view of their master data without consolidating the actual data into a single repository. The registry acts as a directory, providing metadata and linkage information to the actual data sources.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK2 Guide: Chapter 10 – Master and Reference Data Management

"Master Data Management: Creating a Single Source of Truth" by David Loshin

A key point of a Master Data Management (MDM) program is that it must adapt and evolve over time. The statement that an MDM program "can be effectively created and managed long-term using the same methodology" is not correct. MDM programs must continually evolve to address new data sources, changing business requirements, and advancements in technology. As data inventory grows and the data landscape changes, MDM methodologies and strategies need to be reassessed and updated to remain effective. This adaptability is crucial for maintaining data quality and relevance.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK2 Guide: Chapter 10 – Master and Reference Data Management

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson, Larry Dubov

Definitions and Context:

Master Data Management (MDM): MDM involves the processes and technologies for ensuring the uniformity, accuracy, stewardship, semantic consistency, and accountability of an organization’s official shared master data assets.

Data Quality Problems: These include issues such as duplicates, incomplete records, inaccurate data, and data inconsistencies.

Explanation:

Bringing order to your master data, through processes like MDM, aims to resolve data quality issues by standardizing, cleaning, and governing data across the organization.

Effective MDM practices can address and mitigate a significant proportion of data quality problems, as much as 60-80%, because master data is foundational and pervasive across various systems and business processes.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge, 2nd Edition, Chapter 11: Master and Reference Data Management.

Gartner Research, "The Impact of Master Data Management on Data Quality."

Deterministic matching is a method of record linkage that relies on exact matching criteria. This means that records are considered a match if certain key fields (e.g., name, Social Security Number) have exactly the same values. Exact string match is a straightforward example of deterministic matching, where the strings in specific fields must be identical for a match to be declared. Other methods like sorted neighborhood, regional frequency, editing distance, and phonetic matching are probabilistic or heuristic approaches that allow for some degree of variation or error in the data.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK2 Guide: Chapter 10 – Master and Reference Data Management

"Entity Resolution and Information Quality" by John R. Talburt

Master Data relationships define how different master data entities are related to each other within an organization. These relationships are crucial for understanding and managing the dataeffectively. The types of master data relationships generally include hierarchies, groupings, and associations that help in organizing and categorizing the data.

Customer Household:

This refers to grouping individual customers into a single household entity. It is commonly used in consumer industries to understand the relationships and dynamics within a household.

Fixed-Level Hierarchy:

A hierarchy with a predetermined number of levels. Each level has a specific position and relationship to other levels, such as organizational hierarchies or product categorization.

Ragged-Level Hierarchy:

Similar to fixed-level hierarchies, but with varying levels of depth. It accommodates entities that may not fit neatly into a fixed-level structure, providing flexibility in the hierarchy.

Grouping based on common criteria:

This involves creating groups or segments of data based on shared attributes or criteria. For example, grouping products by category or customers by region.

Survivorship (NOT a relationship):

Survivorship pertains to the process of determining the most accurate and relevant data when multiple records exist for the same entity. It is a data quality and management process, not a type of relationship.

In a Consolidated style MDM (Master Data Management) approach, data from multiple source systems is integrated into a single consolidated repository. This consolidated repository acts as the authoritative source for master data, often referred to as the "system of record." The system of record maintains the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive view of master data. Key traits of this approach include:

Centralization: All master data is centralized in one repository, which simplifies data management and governance.

Consistency: Ensures that all users and systems access the same consistent set of master data.

Data Quality: Enhances data quality through data cleansing, deduplication, and validation processes.

Single Source of Truth: Serves as the definitive source for master data, reducing discrepancies and inconsistencies across the organization.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge, 2nd Edition.

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson and Larry Dubov.

Division of Power in Data Governance:This approach distributes decision-making authority across different levels or areas within the organization.

Benefits:

Better alignment of decisions:By distributing power, decisions can be made that are better suited to the specific needs and contexts of different parts of the organization. This ensures that decisions about data management are relevant and effective for each particular area.

Avoids centralization issues:Centralized decision-making can often be disconnected from the needs of different departments or functions.

Improved responsiveness:

Decentralized governance can enable faster and more contextually appropriate responses to data management issues.

Other Options Analysis:

Spreads the blame for bad decisions:This is not a strategic benefit but rather a negative consequence.

Centralizing responsibility:This contradicts the concept of division of power.

Lower expense:While decentralization might lead to better decision-making, it doesn't inherently mean lower costs.

Facilitating a decision by committee model:This can lead to slower decision-making processes and isn't the primary benefit of a division of power.

Conclusion:The key benefit of a division of power approach in master data governance is the better alignment of decisions based on varying levels of organizational data sharing.

References:

DMBOK Guide, sections on Data Governance and Organizational Structures.

CDMP Examination Study Materials.

In Master Data Management (MDM), a classification scheme refers to a structured way of organizing data by using codes that represent a controlled set of values. These codes help in categorizing and standardizing data, making it easier to manage, search, and analyze.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge (2nd Edition), Chapter 11: Reference and Master Data Management.

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson and Larry Dubov.

Master data represents the critical business information that is used across the organization. It provides context and structure for business transactions and analytical processes.

Data about Business Entities:

Master data typically includes key entities such as customers, products, suppliers, employees, and locations.

These entities are fundamental to business operations and provide the necessary context for transactions and analysis.

Providing Context for Business Transactions:

Master data provides the foundational information required to conduct business transactions.

For example, customer master data is used in sales transactions, while product master data is used in inventory management.

Supporting Business Analysis:

Master data is critical for business intelligence and analytics, providing a consistent and accurate view of the core business entities.

It enables effective reporting, analysis, and decision-making by ensuring that the data used in these processes is reliable and standardized.

Other Options:

A: Master data and reference data are distinct; reference data is used to categorize master data.

B: Master data is not necessarily mastered by business users but involves collaboration between IT and business stakeholders.

C: Provides visibility but also context for transactions and analysis.

E: Master data is about business entities, not technical entities.

Definitions and Context:

MDM Solution: This involves tools and processes to manage master data within an organization to ensure a single source of truth.

Onboarding Data Suppliers and Subscribers: This process involves integrating new data sources (suppliers) and distributing data to various applications or users (subscribers).

Explanation:

A key capability for onboarding is the flexibility in data format and transfer methods because different data suppliers may use various formats and protocols.

Ensuring flexibility allows the MDM system to easily adapt to different data sources and meet the needs of diverse data consumers, thereby facilitating quick and efficient onboarding.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge, 2nd Edition, Chapter 11: Master and Reference Data Management.

The Open Group, "TOGAF Series Guide: The Data Management Capability Assessment Model (DCAM)".

Choosing unreliable sources for data can lead to significant data quality issues. This problem is often a symptom of underlying issues in data management practices.

Too Much Data:

While having excessive data can create challenges, it is not directly related to the reliability of data sources.

Immature Data Architecture:

An immature data architecture can contribute to various data issues, but it specifically relates to the overall design and infrastructure rather than the selection of data sources.

Weak Master Data Management (MDM):

MDM is crucial for ensuring data quality and consistency. Weak MDM practices can lead to poor data governance, lack of standardization, and the use of unreliable data sources.

Effective MDM involves establishing strong governance policies, data stewardship, and validation processes to ensure data is sourced from reliable and authoritative sources.

Too Little Data:

Insufficient data can be problematic but is not directly related to choosing unreliable data sources.

No Chance Controls:

This option is not a standard term in data management and does not directly address the issue of data source reliability.

The Master Data hub environment that serves as the system of record for Master Data is:

Consolidated Hub:

Central Repository: Acts as a central repository where master data is stored and managed.

Data Quality and Integration: Ensures data quality by integrating data from various source systems and providing a single source of truth.

System of Record: Maintains the most accurate and up-to-date information about master data entities.

Other Hub Types:

SOA (Service-Oriented Architecture): Focuses on providing a flexible architecture for integrating services but not specifically a master data hub.

Two-Speed Hub: A hybrid approach, but not solely a system of record.

Source Hub: May refer to original source systems, not a consolidated system of record.

Registry: Primarily maintains references to data stored in other systems but not a comprehensive system of record.

References:

Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK), Chapter 7: Master Data Management

DAMA International, "The DAMA Guide to the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK)"

Deterministic matching algorithms rely on exact matches between data fields to determine if records are the same. These algorithms require high-quality data because any discrepancy, such as typographical errors or variations in data entry, can prevent a match.

Characteristics of deterministic matching:

It has a discrete all or nothing outcome (C).

It matches exact character to character of one or more fields (D).

All identifiers being matched have equal weight (E).

Since deterministic matching is highly dependent on the quality of the data being matched, option B is incorrect.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge (2nd Edition), Chapter 11: Reference and Master Data Management.

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson and Larry Dubov.

Authoritative listings of master data entities are essential for ensuring data accuracy and consistency across an organization.

Canonical Directories:

This term refers to standardized data models but is not typically used to describe authoritative listings of master data entities.

Entity Directories:

While this term could be used, it is not the most accurate or commonly used term for authoritative listings.

Reference Directories:

Reference directories are authoritative lists of master data entities such as companies, people, and products. They provide standardized, trusted, and verified data that organizations can rely on.

These directories ensure that everyone in the organization uses consistent and accurate data, supporting data quality and governance efforts.

Industry Directories:

These directories provide information specific to an industry but are not necessarily authoritative lists of master data entities.

Source Directories:

This term does not specifically refer to authoritative master data listings.

Deterministic matching, also known as exact matching, relies on predefined rules and algorithms to parse and standardize data, ensuring that records are compared based on exact or standardized values. This approach uses defined patterns and rules to determine whether two records represent the same entity by matching key attributes exactly. Deterministic matching is precise and unambiguous, making it a common approach for high-certainty matching tasks, although it can be less flexible than probabilistic methods that allow for variations in data.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK2 Guide: Chapter 10 – Master and Reference Data Management

"Entity Resolution and Information Quality" by John R. Talburt

In any Master Data Management (MDM) effort, the most time and energy are typically spent on vetting business entities and data attributes through the Data Governance process. This step ensures that the data is accurate, consistent, and adheres to defined standards and policies. Itinvolves significant collaboration and decision-making among stakeholders to validate and approve the data elements to be managed.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge (2nd Edition), Chapter 11: Reference and Master Data Management.

"Master Data Management and Data Governance" by Alex Berson and Larry Dubov.

Systems of record are primary suppliers of master data content to an MDM program.

Systems of Record:These are authoritative data sources that provide consistent and reliable master data.

Role in MDM:They supply accurate and up-to-date master data, ensuring that the MDM system has a solid foundation of information.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge, 2nd Edition.

CDMP Study Guide

MDM programs often face challenges and can fail due to a combination of factors. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Emphasis on Technology:

Technology-Centric Approach: Overemphasis on technology solutions without addressing people and process components can lead to failure. Successful MDM programs require balanced attention to technology, people, and processes.

Positioning within IT:

IT Focus: Poor positioning of the MDM program within the IT organization can lead to it being seen as a purely technical initiative, missing the necessary business alignment and support.

Business Commitment and Engagement:

Lack of Engagement: Insufficient commitment and engagement from the business side can result in inadequate support, resources, and buy-in, leading to failure.

Program vs. Project:

Long-Term Perspective: Treating MDM as a one-time project rather than an ongoing program can limit its effectiveness. MDM requires continuous improvement and adaptation to evolving business needs.

References:

Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK), Chapter 7: Master Data Management

DAMA International, "The DAMA Guide to the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK)"

Reference data plays a crucial role in financial trading. It includes data such as financial instrument identifiers, market data, currency codes, and regulatory classifications. Despite the dynamic nature of financial trades, reference data provides the necessary static information to execute and settle transactions. Industry estimates suggest that approximately 70% of the data used in financial transactions is reference data, underscoring its importance in the financial sector.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK: Data Management Body of Knowledge (2nd Edition), Chapter 11: Reference and Master Data Management.

"The Data Warehouse Toolkit: The Definitive Guide to Dimensional Modeling" by Ralph Kimball and Margy Ross.

Industry publications and whitepapers on reference data management in financial services.

Implementing Master Data Management (MDM) involves several challenges, but the disparity between data sources is often the most significant.

Disparity Between Sources:

Different systems and applications often store data in varied formats, structures, and standards, leading to inconsistencies and conflicts.

Data integration from disparate sources requires extensive data cleansing, normalization, and harmonization to create a single, unified view of master data entities.

Data Quality Issues:

Variability in data quality across sources can further complicate the integration process. Inconsistent or inaccurate data must be identified and corrected.

Defining Requirements for Master Data:

While defining requirements is crucial, it is typically a manageable step through collaboration with business and technical stakeholders.

DBA Cooperation:

Getting Database Administrators (DBAs) to share table structures can pose challenges, but it is not as critical as dealing with disparate data sources.

Complex Queries and Indexes:

While important for performance optimization, complex queries and indexing issues are more technical hurdles that can be resolved with appropriate database management practices.