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Building a Trusted Profession

Data Professionals: Strategic Enablers of Enterprise Success

At DAMA International, we are here to empower you.

In a world where data fuels innovation, insight, and competitive advantage, data professionals are more essential than ever. You ensure that data is accurate, accessible, secure, and strategically aligned—helping organizations thrive in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

At DAMA International, we recognize your impact—and we’re here to help you grow, lead, and deliver even more value.

How DAMA Supports You as a Data Professional

We equip you with the resources, recognition, and global community you need to:

  • Boost Efficiency
    Master best practices in data quality, integration, and governance to reduce duplication, eliminate rework, and streamline operations.
  • Drive Smarter Decisions
    Deliver trusted, well-managed data that supports everything from day-to-day analytics to long-term strategy and innovation.
  • Reduce Risk and Ensure Compliance
    Stay ahead of evolving data privacy laws and governance demands with tools, training, and frameworks that reduce exposure and support accountability.
  • Unlock Business Value
    Help your organization turn raw data into actionable insight—driving customer engagement, operational excellence, and new revenue opportunities.
  • Build a Resilient Data Culture
    Lead the development of sustainable data stewardship practices that embed data ownership, ethics, and accountability across the enterprise.
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A Code of Ethics for Data Professionals

At DAMA International, we stand for trust, accountability, and integrity.

In today’s data-driven world, trust is everything. As a data professional, you don’t just manage information—you manage its impact on people, decisions, and society. That’s why DAMA International’s Code of Ethics is more than a set of guidelines—it’s a commitment to doing what’s right.

What Ethical Data Practice Looks Like

As a DAMA member or certified professional, you uphold principles that build trust and elevate the profession:

  • Integrity & Professionalism
    Act with honesty, skill, and objectivity in all areas of data work.
  • Accountability for Stewardship
    Take responsibility for the governance, quality, and ethical use of data assets.
  • Respect for Privacy & Security
    Safeguard personal and sensitive information while meeting legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Transparency & Fairness
    Ensure that data-driven decisions are explainable, equitable, and free from misuse or bias.

By embracing this Code, you demonstrate that data management is not only a technical discipline—but an ethical one. You help organizations build trust with stakeholders, stay compliant, and use data in ways that are fair, responsible, and future-ready.

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Defining Best Practices with the DAMA DMBOK®

Your blueprint for professional excellence in data management

Every trusted profession has a foundation of shared knowledge—and for data professionals, that foundation is the DAMA DMBOK®. Developed by DAMA International, the Data Management Body of Knowledge is the industry’s most comprehensive reference for data management principles, disciplines, and best practices.

What the DMBOK Can Do for You

Whether you're building a data strategy, improving governance, or advancing your career, the DMBOK gives you:

  • A Common Language
    Align your team and stakeholders with clear, consistent terminology and concepts used worldwide.
  • Proven Frameworks
    Apply trusted methods for data governance, architecture, quality, security, and more—backed by global experience and industry consensus.
  • Actionable Guidance
    Align data practices with business goals, regulatory requirements, and emerging technologies like AI and analytics.

The DMBOK is more than a reference—it’s a roadmap for organizations seeking to elevate their data capabilities and a toolkit for professionals committed to excellence.

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Professional Certification: The CDMP® Program

Your global credential for credibility, capability, and career growth

In a profession built on trust and expertise, certification matters. The Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP®) program from DAMA International is the industry’s premier credential—offering independent, globally recognized validation of your data management knowledge, skills, and experience.

Why CDMP® Certification Matters

Whether you're advancing in your career or proving your leadership in the field, the CDMP® helps you:

  • Show Commitment to Excellence
    Demonstrate your alignment with international standards and best practices in data management.
  • Build Professional Credibility
    Earn recognition from peers, employers, and clients as a qualified, ethical, and capable data professional.
  • Unlock Career Opportunities
    Stand out in a competitive market with credentials that reflect your real-world expertise and dedication to continuous learning.

The CDMP® is available at multiple levels—from foundational to advanced specializations—so you can grow your credentials as you grow your career.

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Advancing the Profession—Together

Empowering the global data community through connection, leadership, and shared purpose

At DAMA International, we believe the future of data management is built collaboratively. That’s why we work hand-in-hand with data professionals, organizations, academic institutions, and industry leaders to advance the field—raising standards and expanding impact across the globe.

How We Move the Profession Forward

Together, we’re building a thriving professional community grounded in:

  • Ongoing Development
    We provide the tools, learning, and certification pathways for professionals at every stage of their journey.
  • Ethical Leadership
    We promote a code of conduct that puts trust, responsibility, and fairness at the heart of the data profession.
  • Shared Knowledge
    Through frameworks like the DAMA DMBOK and global events, we help shape a unified, world-class approach to data management.

By empowering professionals and fostering collaboration, DAMA International is helping to define what it means to lead with data—today and into the future.