Ask the Experts

What are primary, super, foreign and candidate keys in a DBMS?

Here's a guide to primary, super, foreign and candidate keys, what they're used for in relational database management systems and the differences between them. Continue Reading
What's the difference between DDL and DML?

What's the difference between DDL and DML? Get the answer and see examples of data manipulation language and data definition language commands for SQL databases. Continue Reading
What are the main features of data catalog software?

Data catalogs serve as data portals for self-service business analytics users. Learn how the data is curated, what capabilities are included, the market vendors and the benefits. Continue Reading
What does the GDPR definition of personal data include?

The definition of personal data in the EU's GDPR data protection rules is broad enough to include any type of data that can be used to directly or indirectly identify a person. Continue Reading
Dimension tables vs. fact tables: What's the difference?

Fact tables and dimension tables are used together in star schemas to support data analytics applications. But they play different roles and hold different types of data. Continue Reading

Operational data store vs. data warehouse: How do they differ?

Operational data stores and data warehouses both store operational data, but the similarities between them end there -- and they both have a role to play in analytics architectures. Continue Reading
What are key features for choosing the best ETL tools for your needs?

Choosing the right ETL tool for your data integration requirements can be a challenge. Here's a rundown on what to look for in ETL software and potential vendors to consider. Continue Reading
What is the difference between DBMS and RDBMS?

A relational database management system is the most popular type of database management system for business uses. Find out how RDBMS software differs from DBMS technology in general. Continue Reading
What do we need to optimize our MDM strategy?

Companies in all industries can benefit from a master data management program, advises MDM expert Anne Marie Smith. Learn how to enhance yours. Continue Reading
How a data steward can enable data governance, without 'police' tag

A data governance program doesn't have to be a police action. Instead, advises expert Anne Marie Smith, data stewards should help bring about cultural change in a collaborative way. Continue Reading
Hadoop, big data haven't eclipsed data warehousing jobs -- yet

Hadoop and big data technologies may grab headlines, but there's still a place for traditional data warehousing skills, according to careers expert Matt Mueller. Continue Reading

How metadata management relates to data governance and MDM

Why is metadata management important? Because without it, you couldn't have a successful data governance or master data management program, explains governance expert Anne Marie Smith. Continue Reading
Five steps to implementing an MDM program

Instituting a master data management program involves discovery, analysis, construction, implementation and sustainment processes, according to MDM expert Anne Marie Smith. Continue Reading
How to combine MDM projects and BI programs -- and boost their ROI

Combining master data management projects and business intelligence programs can provide business value -- if the architecture is there to support it, says expert Anne Marie Smith. Continue Reading
Ride the wave of big data jobs by acquiring the right skills

IT recruitment expert Matt Mueller suggests that data management professionals amp up their big data skills and experience in order to stay competitive in a swiftly changing industry. Continue Reading