Data Stewardship Body of Knowledge (DSBOK)

Elevate your data from scattered and uncertain to trusted and strategic with the definitive Data Stewardship Body of Knowledge (DSBOK).

The Data Stewardship Body of Knowledge (DSBOK) is the trusted guide for data stewards, data governance leaders, and managers who need to ensure data is accurate, well-defined, protected, and responsibly used. Covering the essential domains of data quality, metadata management, governance, interoperability, and culture, this reference equips you to build strong stewardship programs and drive value from information across the enterprise. Whether you are a full-time data steward, a business professional tasked with part-time stewardship responsibilities, or an executive supporting data initiatives, this book provides the clarity and structure you need to succeed.

Inside, you'll find comprehensive coverage of stewardship fundamentals, from definitions, skills, and organizational models to the tools, technologies, and metrics that measure success. The DSBOK outlines practical frameworks for managing data quality across structured, semi-structured, and unstructured sources, explains how to use data catalogs, glossaries, and lineage tools, and connects stewardship practices with enterprise data governance, regulatory compliance, and AI/ML ethics. With real-world insights and structured guidance, it serves as both a learning map for individuals and a planning framework for organizations.

Each chapter provides actionable context-what a stewardship area is, why it matters, and what knowledge is most relevant-without overwhelming you with unnecessary detail. From data literacy and ethics to master data management, interoperability, and governance maturity, the book highlights the scope of stewardship so you can identify the right priorities for your role or team.

More than a manual, this book is a companion for building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and trust in data. It gives you the language to engage with both business and technical stakeholders, the tools to advocate for responsible practices, and the perspective to align stewardship with organizational goals.