Now that we’ve explored some hypothetical and real-world case studies on the many applications of blockchain, it’s time to turn to the realm of data management. Part III summarizes each of the 11 commonly accepted disciplines within data management, and shows how blockchain will change each one. This often means expanding the responsibilities of those IT and business professionals within each discipline.

The Data Management Body of Knowledge 2nd Edition (abbreviated DAMA-DMBOK2) will provide the context and reference for this section. The DAMA-DMBOK2 contains the most comprehensive description of data management in general. This book also provides a fantastic overview of each of the 11 disciplines, plus captures the numerous complex relationships that exist between the disciplines. As such, it’s a wonderful tool for examining how new technologies (such as blockchain) will impact data management in general and each discipline in particular.

The DAMA-DMBOK2 visually captures all 11 disciplines in the DAMA Wheel, as shown in Figure III.1.

The DAMA Wheel defines the Data Management Knowledge Areas (sometimes called “domains”). It places data governance at the center of these domains, since governance is required for consistency within and between all of the other functions. The other Knowledge Areas (e.g. Data Architecture, Data Modeling) are equally balanced around the Wheel. They are all necessary parts of a mature data management function, but they may be implemented at different times, depending on the requirements of the organization.30

For each of the next 11 chapters, learn about each discipline, and see how roles and responsibilities will change as blockchain becomes more mainstream.