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DAMA Dictionary

🧾DAMA Dictionary

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Also known as: DAMA Dictionary of Data Management

A glossary that standardizes terminology across data management disciplines for consistent communication and governance.

DESCRIPTION

The DAMA Dictionary compiles authoritative definitions used in data management. It supports consistent language across governance, modeling, quality, and architecture practices. Organizations adopt it to align business and technical stakeholders. The dictionary complements DMBOK by clarifying terms and reducing ambiguity. It is widely referenced in glossaries, policies, and training.

ALTERNATIVE DEFINITIONS

Technics Publications

The DAMA Dictionary of Data Management is the definitive glossary of terms for data management and data governance professionals.

Positions the dictionary as a definitive reference for practitioners.

Source

DAMA International

The DAMA Dictionary of Data Management provides standardized definitions to promote common understanding across the data management community.

Highlights the goal of community-wide standardization of terms.

Source

DAMA-DMBOK Data Glossary Metadata Management Governance Terminology Management ISO/IEC 11179

COMPETING TERMS

EDM Council Glossary

RELATIONS

KNOWLEDGE AREAS

Data Management Metadata Management Data Governance

TARGET AUDIENCE

Data Steward Data Governance Manager Data Management Consultant Data Architect Information Analyst

EXTERNAL SOURCES

TOP QUESTIONS

Why use the DAMA Dictionary in governance?

It provides standardized definitions that reduce ambiguity in policies, glossaries, and data contracts across teams.

Category: Relevancy

How does the DAMA Dictionary relate to DMBOK?

It complements DMBOK by defining the terms used throughout the body of knowledge and associated practices.

Category: Definition

Can we extend the DAMA Dictionary for our organization?

Yes. Many organizations adopt core definitions and add domain-specific terms while preserving traceability to source definitions.

Category: BestPractice

Is the DAMA Dictionary a standard?

It is a widely recognized reference, not a formal standard. It informs enterprise glossaries and naming conventions.

Category: Misunderstanding

How do data stewards use the DAMA Dictionary?

They align business terms, resolve conflicts, and document definitions in catalogs to ensure consistent usage.

Category: Management

What risks occur without a common dictionary?

Misinterpretation of KPIs and data elements can drive inconsistent reports and flawed decisions.

Category: Risks

How often should the dictionary be reviewed?

At least annually or when major initiatives introduce new terminology, ensuring continued relevance and consistency.

Category: Process

Does the DAMA Dictionary cover AI terms?

It focuses on data management. For AI, complement with AI-specific glossaries or standards.

Category: Scope

Where to start integrating the DAMA Dictionary?

Seed your business glossary with core terms and train stewards and analysts on preferred definitions.

Category: GettingStarted