One of the main objectives of a master data management (MDM) program is to support the use by enterprise applications of a synchronized, shared repository of core information objects that are relevant to business success. The end goal of any MDM project is to create a single repository that feeds these applications, creating the much-heralded concept of a “single view of the truth.”

As new data sets contribute information to the master data repository, proper data governance policies and procedures will ensure continuous data quality. However, integrating and consolidating data alone will not accomplish the objectives of MDM. Rather, organizations realize the true value only when the consolidated master data is integrated back into operational and analytical use by the participating applications – and the enterprise has a single, synchronized view its business data.

The abstraction of the data integration layer as it relates to business application development exposes two ways that master data is integrated into a services-based framework. Tactically, a services layer must be introduced to facilitate the transition of applications to use of a master repository. Strategically, the abstraction of the core master entities at a data integration layer establishes a hierarchical set of information services that support the rapid and efficient development of business applications. Both of these imperatives are satisfied by a services-oriented architecture (SOA).

In essence, there is a symbiotic relationship between MDM and SOA. A services-oriented approach to business solution development relies on the existence of a master data repository. At the same time, the success of an MDM program depends on the ability to deploy and use master object access and manipulation services. This white paper explores the symbiotic relationship between MDM and SOA – and how you can effectively create a strategy that encompasses both of these initiatives.