Certified Data Management Professional – Fundamentals (CDMP) — Question 123

The main difference between a System of Record and a System of Reference is:

Answer options

• A. A system of record is the source of master data; a system of reference is the source of reference data
• B. The data does not originate in the system of record
• C. The data does not originate in the system of reference
• D. They are the same thing
• E. A system of reference is the source of transaction data; the system of record is the source of master data

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer, A, accurately describes that a System of Record holds the primary master data, while a System of Reference provides reference data. Options B and C are incorrect because they misrepresent the nature of data origin in these systems. Option D incorrectly states that they are the same, and option E confuses the roles of transaction data and master data.