The DAMA® Data Management Body of Knowledge (DAMA-DMBOK®) is a globally recognized framework that defines the core principlesbest practicesand essential functions of data management. Developed by DAMA International®this guide provides a structured foundation for professionalsorganizationsand educators to understandimplementand continuously improve data management practices.
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DAMA-DMBOK® Revision is not an exhaustive inventory of everything a data professional should knowbut rather a curated and structured subset of knowledge that forms the foundation of the discipline. It reflects a consensus-based view of generally accepted knowledge in data managementdefining the scope and boundaries of the profession while remaining flexible enough to evolve with technological and methodological advancements.
As businesses become increasingly data-driventhe need for a well-defined approach to managing data has never been greater. DAMA-DMBOK® helps organizations structuregovernand optimize their data assetsensuring alignment with business strategyregulatory complianceand emerging technologies such as artificial intelligencemachine learningand cloud computing.
Why is DAMA-DMBOK® Important?
DAMA-DMBOK® serves as a universal reference for data professionalsenabling organizations to establish and maintain effectivestandardized data management practices across industries.
Standardization:
Establishes a common language and a structured framework for data management professionals worldwide.
Governance & Compliance:
Provides guidance on data securityprivacyand regulatory adherence in an increasingly complex data landscape.
Strategic Alignment:
Helps organizations integrate data management into business objectivesensuring data is treated as a valuable strategic asset.
Operational Efficiency:
Outlines key functionsrolesand methodologies to ensure data is effectively managedmaintainedand leveraged for business success.
Foundation for Certification & Education:
Provides the knowledge base for CDMP® certification and other educational programshelping professionals advance their careers.
Adaptability & Evolution:
Unlike rigid standardsDAMA-DMBOK® is designed to evolve over timereflecting new technologiesmethodologiesand industry best practices.
What DAMA-DMBOK® is Not
While DAMA-DMBOK® is a comprehensive guide to best practicesit is important to clarify its boundaries and intended role within the data management profession:
Not a Prescriptive Standard:
DAMA-DMBOK® defines principles and best practices but does not prescribe specific toolstechnologiesor methodologies. Organizations must adapt its guidance to their unique environments.
Not a Regulation or Compliance Mandate:
While it aligns with governance and compliance principlesit is not a legally binding framework but rather a reference to help organizations meet regulatory requirements.
Not a Technology Manual:
DAMA-DMBOK® is vendor-neutral and does not promote specific softwareplatformsor technical implementations.
Not an Exhaustive Knowledge Repository:
It does not aim to catalog everything a data professional should knowbut instead focuses on defining core competencies and best practices.
Not a Certification Program:
While DAMA-DMBOK® serves as the foundational knowledge base for the CDMP® and other certificationsit is not a certification or training program itself.
Not a One-Size-Fits-All Approach:
Organizations and professionals must interpret and apply DAMA-DMBOK®’s guidance based on their unique data challengesindustry needsand maturity levels.
DAMA-DMBOK® is a livingevolving guide that sets the foundation for professional knowledge in data management. It is designed to complement industry certificationsaccreditation programsand educational curriculaensuring that data professionals stay informedskilledand adaptable in an ever-changing data landscape.
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DAMA-DMBOK® Evergreening Project
In 2024 DAMA launched the DAMA DMBOK® 2.0 Revisionwhich introduced . See the Frequently Asked Questions for further information.
The DAMA-DMBOK® 3.0 project started in 2025 is an evergreening initiative aimed at modernizing the Data Management Body of Knowledge to reflect the rapidly evolving data landscape. This effort seeks to incorporate emerging disciplines while refining existing knowledge areas to align with current industry practices and technological advancements. By enhancing the framework's accessibility and usabilitythe project aspires to maintain its status as the authoritative guide for data management professionals worldwide. Central to this initiative is global collaborationengaging practitionersacademicseducatorsand organizations across diverse industries and regions to ensure the standard remains practicalrelevantand universally applicable.