What does a data modeler do?

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Data modeling is an important part of business intelligence that requires the support of skilled professionals. Learn more about what they do.

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Databases are central to the operations of many organizations today. However, before developing and utilizing a database, it is crucial to undertake data modeling operations, making necessary adjustments and changes to database designs.

In many cases, this task is handled by a data professional called a data modeler. The following guide offers an explanation of what data modeling means, what a data modeler does, and what it takes to become one, so you can assess whether it is a fitting career path for you.

Data modeling refers to the process of evaluating, organizing, measuring and managing data in particular business processes. It is the documentation of a software system design as a diagram that is easy to understand. Data modeling enables you to conceptually represent data and the relationships between rules and data objects. It can also be used for reverse-engineering efforts to extract models from existing systems.

A data modeler is a computer systems engineer with expertise in these data modeling practices. This is a system analyst who works alongside data architects and database administrators to design computer databases. The data modeler role is also heavily involved with data management policies that support organizational data structures.

As a result, data modelers are vital to an organization achieving its goals in almost all areas of operation. They are tasked with designing and managing data systems that are architecturally sound enough to reinforce the goals of an organization. Data modelers collaborate with other IT professionals in an organization to model vital data that will heavily direct not only the decision-making of an organization but also customer experience processes.

The overall responsibility of a data modeler is to design databases that improve the usability and effectiveness of how organizations access and utilize their data. Breaking down this role into further responsibilities, a data modeler:

Before you can take on the responsibilities of a data modeler, it’s important to develop the prerequisite skills and experience for the role:

Data modelers are required to possess a variety of skills that include but are not limited to:

For individuals who want to pursue a data modeling career, a bachelor’s degree in data science, computer science, information technology, information science, applied mathematics or a related field will likely be required. Some organizations or roles may require a more advanced degree, such as a master’s degree in a relevant discipline.

Education aside, hands-on work experience cements your credibility as a data professional. Your work experience may not be in a data modeling role, but having experience in related areas, such as data design and data management, may boost your eligibility for data modeling positions.

Relevant certification programs are an effective way to certify your competence and boost your skills for data modeling roles. Some helpful data modeling certifications and trainings include the following:

Though it’s not compulsory, combining skills, education, work experience, certifications and further training will increase both your eligibility and your visibility when it comes to open data modeler roles. To learn more about what it takes to become a data modeler—or to hire an effective data modeler—take a look at this big data modeler job description from TechRepublic Premium.