Choose Your Reading Style
A professional-level summary covering key definitions, frameworks, and exam-relevant points.
DMBOK Framework Components
The DAMA DMBOK v2 describes data governance as requiring six core components: governance organisation, data governance strategy, data governance policies and standards, data governance processes, data governance tools, and data governance metrics. These components must be designed and implemented as an integrated system, not as isolated initiatives.
Governance Operating Models
| Model | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Centralised | Single governance team controls all data decisions | Small organisations, high-compliance environments |
| Federated | Domain-level governance with central coordination | Large, diverse organisations with multiple business units |
| Hybrid | Central standards with domain-level implementation | Most large enterprises — balances consistency with flexibility |
Critical Data Elements (CDEs)
A practical starting point for governance framework implementation is identifying Critical Data Elements (CDEs) — the specific data attributes that are most important to the organisation's operations, decisions, and compliance. Governance effort is concentrated on CDEs first, then expanded to other data assets over time. This proportionality approach is explicitly recommended in the DMBOK.
CDMP Exam Relevance
Framework components are tested in questions about governance programme design, operating model selection, and the relationship between governance components. The distinction between policies (high-level rules) and standards (specific, measurable requirements) is a frequently tested nuance.