Enterprise Data Dictionary - Data Culture Defined

DHS is increasing the alignment of its source data systems to position for the next iteration of the Integrated Services Delivery Model. DHS envisions a central source of truth for data elements and information concepts documentation for the enterprise, housed in an enterprise data dictionary. This dictionary will deliver value in three ways.

• The first value delivered defines data in one place: reducing data redundancies, increasing alignment of like-data, and increasing confidence of data users (e.g., reduction of possible contradictions across multiple data dictionaries/copies).
• The second value delivered catalogs institutional knowledge: easing onboarding to data systems, accelerating knowledge transfer, increasing efficiency in data use, and decreasing inaccurate data use and misinterpretation.
• The third value delivered increases interoperability across source systems: increasing enterprise universal language, consistency across source systems upon data ingestion utilizing standards and best practices, traceability of data anomalies and variations, and nuancing security to the element level to increase the use of data from applications while upholding robust data practices.

Speakers: Christen Pentek and Sara Walker

Christen Pentek

Pentek’s data governance work includes master data management and interoperability of data for Minnesota’s Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services Interoperability Rule implementation. This Rule intends to give participants, providers, and payers timely access to the information needed to provide transparent, quality healthcare services - simply, to use the health evidence and data available to provide excellent care and meet people's needs. Pentek also facilitates data standards for data quality and operationalizes integrated service delivery for Minnesotans and consent management for individuals to control their data with the State, including data sharing for health and social service coordination.

Sara Walker

Sara Walker has wide experience with data in a variety of areas, including statistics, data architecture, data modeling, data visualization, and data governance in both the private and public sectors. In her current role at the State of Minnesota, she represents programs related to children and families in conversations around system modernization and business integration. Her experience of working as an analyst and a data engineer allows her to represent the more technical roles in business and governance conversations and has provided her with a unique ability to dig into the details and bring them to the bigger picture.