A multinational corporation is planning a big data initiative to help with critical business decisions. Which of the following is the BEST way to ensure personal data usage is standardized across the

Question

Options

• ADe-identify all data.
• BDevelop a data dictionary.
• CEncrypt all sensitive data.
• DPerform data discovery.

• A
  6% (1)
• B
  67% (12)
• C
  6% (1)
• D
  22% (4)

Explanation

Developing a data dictionary (B) is the best approach because it creates a centralized reference that defines data elements, their meanings, formats, and acceptable usage - ensuring every team across the organization interprets and handles personal data consistently. Without shared definitions, different departments may collect, label, or use the same data fields in incompatible ways, undermining standardization.

Why the distractors fall short:

• A (De-identify) removes personal identifiers but doesn't standardize how remaining data is defined or used organization-wide.
• C (Encrypt) protects data in transit/at rest but is a security control, not a standardization mechanism.
• D (Data discovery) is a preliminary step to find where data lives - it doesn't establish standards for how it should be used.

Memory tip: Think of a data dictionary like a company-wide glossary - just as a shared language prevents miscommunication between people, a data dictionary prevents misinterpretation between systems and teams. The word "standardized" in the question is your clue: only a dictionary-style reference document enforces consistent definitions.

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