What is System of Record (SoR)?

A System of Record (SoR) is a significant concept in data management and information technology. It refers to a primary data storage system where original records are held and managed. Here’s a detailed explanation and the importance of Systems of Record:

Definition and Characteristics:

Core Definition:

A System of Record is essentially a primary or authoritative storage system or database where a company’s data is stored, managed, and maintained. It serves as the official and authentic source of truth for a specific set of data.

Original Records:

Systems of Record hold the original records of the data, ensuring that they remain intact and unchanged. This is crucial for maintaining data integrity and accuracy over time.

Importance and Benefits:

Centralized Access and Sharing:

One of the primary benefits of using a System of Record is the centralized access it provides to important data. It allows multiple users to access the data, making it an effective way to share crucial information among different stakeholders in an organization.

Collaboration Enhancement:

When two or more departments within an organization work on the same project, a System of Record can facilitate better collaboration by ensuring everyone has access to the same, accurate data.

In a Technical Context:

Data Durability:

In technical terms, a System of Record is responsible for the durability of data at rest, making sure that the data remains safe and intact even when it’s not being actively used or accessed.

Common Examples:

Databases and Data Lakes:

Common examples of Systems of Record include databases, data lakes, and archives where data is stored in a structured or unstructured manner.

Implementation in Different Environments:

Cloud Services:

Cloud services like Amazon S3 can serve as a durable System of Record, ensuring that data is safely stored and managed in a cloud environment.

Conclusions:

A System of Record is not only crucial for ensuring data accuracy and integrity but also plays a significant role in facilitating collaboration and effective data management in modern organizations. Whether it’s on-premise or cloud-based, implementing a robust System of Record is fundamental to achieving efficient data governance and management.