As we've seen, an MDM solution can incorporate some sophisticated automated functions to assist in delivering master data to the business. However, technology alone cannot ensure the success of an MDM program. Processes must be followed in order to ensure that the MDM solution doesn't fall into the same trap that required its creation in the first place. Data Governance is the method for ensuring this—a framework that defines how master data can be used within the organization.

The idea behind using data governance for MDM is to ensure that the use of master data follows specific rules, policies, and procedures that tie in with the organization's overall strategic objectives. The rules that are set in place typically cover the following areas of the MDM program:

The physical deliverable for data governance in MDM is a set of documents that clearly define the above rules and standards. These documents should be made available to the relevant people in the organization, according to the organization's standard document management policy, for example, SharePoint.

MDM policies and procedures are set up and enforced by a group within the organization known as the Data Governance Board. The Data Governance Board is working group within the organization that will meet on a regular basis to make decisions according to the policy. For example, the organization may be developing a new in-house Marketing system that will assist with campaign management. The stakeholders of this system wish to take a feed of Customer data from the MDM database, which must be approved via the Data Governance program.