**Master data management architecture** (MDM architecture) is the structural framework of technologies, processes, and governance models used to implement [[Master data management|master data management]] within an organization. It defines how [[Master data|master data]]—the core business entities such as customers, products, suppliers, and locations—is collected, consolidated, stored, governed, and distributed across [[Enterprise software|enterprise systems]]. MDM architecture is a key component of broader [[Data architecture|data architecture]] and [[Enterprise architecture|enterprise architecture]] strategies, ensuring that critical reference data remains consistent, accurate, and authoritative across the enterprise. MDM architectures are commonly classified into several implementation styles based on how and where the master data is managed. The most widely recognized styles include the **registry style**, which maintains pointers to master records across source systems without consolidating data physically; the **consolidation style**, which aggregates data into a central [[Data repository|repository]] for reference and [[Data analytics|analytics]] but does not write back to source systems; the **coexistence style**, in which a central hub and source systems both maintain master records and synchronize changes; and the **transaction style** (also called centralized), in which all master data is authored and maintained in a single [[System of record|system of record]] and published to consuming applications. Many enterprises adopt a **hybrid** approach, applying different styles to different [[Data domain|data domains]] based on business requirements and system maturity. Key components of an MDM architecture typically include a **master data hub** or repository, [[Data integration|data integration]] and [[Extract, transform, load|ETL]] pipelines, [[Data quality|data quality]] and [[Data cleansing|data cleansing]] services, [[Data matching|matching and merging]] algorithms for [[Entity resolution|entity resolution]], [[Data stewardship|data stewardship]] workflows, and [[Data governance|data governance]] policies. The architecture must also address [[Data model|data modeling]] standards, [[Application programming interface|API]]-based access for consuming systems, and [[Metadata management|metadata management]]. Leading platforms for MDM implementation include products from [[Informatica]], [[IBM]], [[SAP]], [[TIBCO Software|TIBCO]], and [[Reltio]], among others. The choice of architecture significantly affects an organization's ability to achieve a [[Single source of truth|single source of truth]] and support initiatives in [[Data analytics|analytics]], [[Regulatory compliance|regulatory compliance]], and [[Digital transformation|digital transformation]].