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TDAN: The Data Administration Newsletter, Since 1997

THE DATA ADMINISTRATION NEWSLETTER – TDAN.com
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Data Admin Position Responsibilities

by Anne Marie Smith
Published: June 1, 1998
Following is a representation of a basic set of job descriptions for a typical data administration unit.

When establishing or expanding a data administration/data management department, it is frequently necessary to develop a series of job descriptions for the various levels of data analysis. Following is a representation of a basic set of job descriptions for a typical data administration unit.

Manager/administrator:

Functions and accountabilities: Very strong relational database experience in the logical and design areas, with some experience in physical design. Evaluate new technologies for modeling, methodology, tools, using creativity and originality in evaluations. Demonstrated ability to recommend changes to modeling and data analysis practices, with implementation where appropriate. Competent to work at the highest levels of all phases of logical modeling and design. Review models designed by data administration staff, relating the activities of other modeling efforts to the model under review. Skilled in assessing and prioritizing new work for the data administration unit. Instruct lower level analysts and other interested persons in data administration and modeling techniques. Plan, coordinate and manage multiple, often competing assignments and supervise lower level analysts, with very limited review of own actions. Responsible for recommending changes to the strategic direction of data administration activities. Responsible for recommending changes that will assist in the integration and deployment of data administration throughout the enterprise.
Excellent written and oral communication skills required, strong presentation skills are expected. Position requires an undergraduate degree, a Master's degree (MS or MBA) is preferred. At least 7 years data analysis experience with some managerial experience. Experience with mission critical systems data modeling, analytic and consultative skills, project management training and experience.

Senior:

Functions and accountabilities: Strong relational database experience in the logical and design areas. Significant training in logical modeling, methodology and tools with some evaluation of methods. Strong analysis skills, in both data content and modeling (relationships, meta data). May be required to review (or assist in the review) models designed by data administration staff, relating the activities of other modeling efforts to the model under review. Assist in assignment planning and prioritizing, assist in data administration instruction as appropriate.
Very strong written and oral communication skills, including some presentation skills. Works well under general supervision, with very limited review of work needed. Position requires an undergraduate degree and at least 5 years in data administration/data modeling. Some consultative skills and project management experience is preferred.

Junior:

Functions and accountabilities: Some relational database experience in the logical and design areas. Basic to intermediate training in logical modeling, methodology and tools. Strong analysis skills, in data content and research, with some modeling skills for relationships and meta data.
Strong written and oral communication skills and presentation capabilities. Works well under general supervision, with limited review of work needed, based on incumbent's level of experience. Position requires an undergraduate degree with at least 2 years in data administration or a related IS discipline.

Trainee:

Functions and accountabilities: Trainee position, with little or no experience in relational database for logical area. Some understanding of relational concepts and meta data concepts. Will be trained in logical modeling, methodology and tools. Solid analysis skills, in both data content and basic research.
Strong written and oral communication skills. Works well under supervision, with regular review of work, based on incumbent's level of experience. Position requires an undergraduate degree coupled with enthusiasm and willingness to learn and apply data management concepts and techniques. Armed with position descriptions and appropriate interview questions, it should be possible for the hiring manager to evaluate and recommend qualified candidates who will be successful in data administration. Position descriptions should also be used in performance review process and staff promotions.

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Recent articles by Anne Marie Smith

Anne Marie Smith -

Anne Marie Smith has been an IS professional since 1983, within various industries.  She has demonstrated leadership and technical skills and has extensive experience in the areas of data administration, data architecture, methodology, business process analysis, data warehouse architecture and metadata management.

Anne Marie’s Areas of Expertise include: Data Administration Organization, Business Process Evaluation and Analysis, Logical Data Modeling, Enterprise Data Management/Stewardship, Metadata Management, Client Focus and Collaboration, Project Management, Data Warehouse Architecture, Analytical and Critical Thinking.

Anne Marie holds a  Bachelor of Arts and a Master's of Business Administration degrees, both from La Salle University in Philadelphia, PA.  She is active in the Philadelphia area chapter of the Data Management Association (DAMA) and has served on the Board of DAMA International. Anne Marie is also a frequent contributor to the Data Administration Newsletter (http://www.tdan.com).  Anne Marie speaks at industry and academic conferences on the topics of metadata management, data and process modeling techniques, business aspects of electronic commerce and data warehousing.  Currently, Anne Marie is Assistant Professor of Management Information Systems (MIS) at La Salle University (http://www.lasalle.edu) in Philadelphia, PA.  She is also a consultant in her areas of expertise with a Philadelphia-area information management consultancy.