Ask the Experts

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

Data management training helps, but hands-on experience is better

IT recruiting expert Matt Mueller explains why obtaining a specific degree or certification in data management shouldn't be a job seeker's top priority. Continue Reading
Integrate data quality into your master data management strategy

When implementing an MDM initiative, businesses should take steps to incorporate effective data quality management practices from the outset. Continue Reading
When does a NoSQL DB trump a traditional database?

The unstructured data types common in big data systems are often better managed by a NoSQL database than relational software, Mark Whitehorn says. Continue Reading
Part-time data stewards can enrich data governance programs

Data governance programs often rely on the part-time data steward -- an employee from a business unit who also serves as a data expert. Continue Reading
Cloud database security: Why it's a good idea to be paranoid

IT managers should ask cloud providers some pointed questions about the security of data stored in cloud databases, says expert Mark Whitehorn. Continue Reading
Seven best practices to boost big data governance efforts

Governing big data is much like governing other data, though businesses must adjust governance processes to accommodate larger, more varied data sets. Continue Reading

In-memory databases best suited for 'relatively small' data sets

How does data set size determine whether an in-memory database is a good fit for applications, especially analytics uses? Mark Whitehorn explains. Continue Reading
Big data careers: Taking the initiative to improve your skill set

Expert Matt Mueller offers advice to data management pros who are interested in developing their big data skill set. Continue Reading
Creating a data governance council: Enlist champions to lead

Enlist senior-level champions from both business and IT to guide a data governance program and achieve harmony between the two sides. Continue Reading
Priming a master data management strategy for success

Organizations should meet a few key program development goals prior to implementing an MDM initiative, according to MDM expert Anne Marie Smith. Continue Reading