Common misread
Yes. Process and coding standards first; tools can follow.
Before integrating systems, unify customer, item, and org definitions and codes. Otherwise faster interfaces only amplify mistakes. Dual cards first, then the table and Q&A.
Safer framing
Freeze new junk codes; remediate active objects; read-only maps for history.
- Name systems of record: who mints item codes, who mints customer codes.
- Manage synonyms and one-to-many maps in explicit tables; no verbal crosswalks.
- Sample reconcile before go-live: same code different meaning, same meaning different codes.
- Change process: master-data changes notify downstream to stop silent drift.
- Put completeness, conflict count, and fix SLA into monthly ops reviews.
| Decision lens | Common trap or cost | Safer cut |
|---|---|---|
| System of record | Item/customer/org | Write it down |
| Map governance | Explicit versioned tables | No verbal maps |
| Traffic gate | Reconcile pass | Then integrate |
Master data is the foundation of integration, not optional
Without MDM software?
Yes. Process and coding standards first; tools can follow.
Dirty historical masters?
Freeze new junk codes; remediate active objects; read-only maps for history.
Multi-entity coding?
Global code plus org attributes, or segmented codes, with one network-wide rule.
Integration or master data first?
Rules before interface build; skeletons may parallel, but no traffic until maps settle.