Data Modeler

A data modeler is a systems analyst and engineer who designs and maintains data models and computer databases. They work with data architects and database administrators to ensure that data is organized correctly and optimized for an organization's needs. A data modeler ensures an organization’s data is organized correctly and optimized into an information system to help achieve critical objectives. Learn more about what the data modeling career entails and the steps you can take to become a data modeler.

Data modelers are systems analysts who work with data architects and database administrators to design computer databases and are at the forefront of data management measures that underpin organizational data structures. In more ways than one, these systems analysts play an integral role in helping organizations achieve end goals in nearly every area of operation, including product lifecycle and customer experience. Knowing what data modeling is, what data modelers do in their roles, and the skills, education, and experience needed to become a data modeler can help determine if this career path is right for you.

Importance of data modeling

The importance of data modeling rests with the treatment of specific data. Not all data can or should be treated the same. Therefore, it is a part of the data modelers’ responsibility to determine how to structure data to ensure it meets the needs of both the organization and its end customers. Another critical aspect of data modeling is using the data as a resource for achieving organizational objectives. Predefined requirements and rules govern data management in databases and information systems to ensure that the data’s incorporation into the system is correct. This step also ensures that the data is efficiently used and applied and can adapt to the needs and expectations of stakeholders and end-users.

In an ideal situation, data models are dynamic and fully and functionally support business processes and planning, no matter how complex.

What do data modelers do?

As a data modeler, you will design and manage data systems that are architecturally sound enough to support your organization's goals. In most cases, you will be working with other information technology (IT) professionals like data scientists and database administrators to model critical data and information that will play an essential role in the organization’s decision-making and customer experiences processes. Additionally, you will be responsible for understanding how core data is utilized and supporting all organizational stakeholders and operations, including its products, customers, and staff.

The primary goal for data modeling is to:

• Ensure the data is accurately represented, as any data that is omitted from the database can result in incorrect results and inaccurate reporting
• Help to define the database and the conceptual, logical and physical levels involved
• Help to define the primary and foreign keys, relational tables and stored procedures
• Obtain a clear picture for the base data that developers can use when creating the actual database
• Identify any redundant or missing data
• Make maintenance and upgrades on the IT infrastructure to make it faster and more affordable