How to Build a Data Governance Roadmap: Step-by-Step Guide

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A professional-level summary covering key definitions, frameworks, and exam-relevant points.

Typical Data Governance Roadmap Phases

Phase	Typical Duration	Key Activities	Milestones
Foundation	3-6 months	Maturity assessment; strategy; operating model; quick wins	Governance charter approved; data owners assigned
Core capabilities	6-12 months	Business glossary; data catalog; data quality baseline; policies	Critical data elements defined; quality baseline established
Expansion	12-18 months	Extend to additional domains; advanced quality monitoring; lineage	All critical domains governed; quality targets met
Optimisation	Ongoing	Automation; AI-driven governance; continuous improvement	Target maturity level achieved; governance embedded in culture

CDMP Exam Relevance

Data governance roadmaps and implementation planning are tested in the Data Governance knowledge area (11% of the CDMP exam). Key exam topics include: the steps in building a governance roadmap, the concept of phased implementation, the role of maturity assessments in roadmap development, and the characteristics of effective governance initiatives (quick wins, stakeholder engagement, executive sponsorship). Understanding roadmap development is also important for Data Management Maturity questions.

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