Every organization relies on data to communicate, operate, and make decisions. Yet one of the most critical forms of data often receives the least attention: reference data.
Reference data defines the common language used across business processes, systems, reports, and applications. It provides consistency in how information is categorized, interpreted, and exchanged throughout an organization. When reference data is managed effectively, it enables seamless communication between business and technology teams. When it is poorly managed, confusion, duplication, and misalignment quickly emerge.
In this session, Chris Barr draws upon nearly four decades of industry experience and seventeen years leading data governance initiatives to explore the often-overlooked world of reference data management. Through practical examples and a real-world success story, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how reference data influences business operations, system integrations, reporting accuracy, and organizational decision-making.
The session will also examine the distinction between reference data and cross-reference data, common challenges organizations face when managing these assets, and governance practices that help establish consistency and trust across enterprise systems.
Business Analysts are uniquely positioned to help organizations identify, define, govern, and communicate reference data requirements. This session provides practical insights that can immediately improve collaboration between business and technology stakeholders while supporting stronger data-driven outcomes.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Understand the role and importance of reference data within modern organizations.
- Distinguish between reference data and cross-reference data.
- Recognize common challenges associated with poorly managed reference data.
- Apply practical principles for establishing effective reference data governance.
- Understand how reference data supports communication between business and technology teams.
- Identify opportunities for Business Analysts to contribute to reference data management initiatives.
Course Outline
Understanding Reference Data
- What reference data is and why it matters
- The role of reference data in business operations
- Common examples found across industries
Reference Data vs. Cross-Reference Data
- Key differences between the two concepts
- Business use cases for each
- Common misunderstandings and pitfalls
The Business Impact of Data Consistency
- How reference data enables organizational communication
- Supporting system integrations and reporting accuracy
- Reducing confusion and improving operational efficiency
Real-World Success Story
- A practical example of successful reference data management
- Challenges encountered
- Lessons learned and outcomes achieved
Governance Principles for Sustainable Success
- Ownership and stewardship
- Standards and controls
- Maintaining trust and consistency across systems
The Business Analyst's Role
- Eliciting and documenting reference data requirements
- Supporting governance initiatives
- Bridging communication between business and technology stakeholders
Audience
This session is ideal for:
- Business Analysts
- Data Analysts
- Data Governance Professionals
- Data Stewards
- Product Owners
- Project Managers
- Enterprise Architects
- IT Professionals
- Anyone involved in data management or business transformation initiatives
Session Overview
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Eastern Time
Format: Virtual Live Session
Duration: 1 Hour
Instructor Profile
Chris Barr
Chris Barr is an experienced data governance leader and self-described "insurance data geek" with nearly forty years of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry. Throughout his career, he has served in a wide variety of business and technology roles, gaining extensive insight into how organizations use data to drive communication, operations, and decision-making.
For the past seventeen years, Chris has served as the Data Governor for The Cincinnati Insurance Companies, where he has led initiatives focused on data governance, reference data management, and enterprise data quality. His work has helped establish stronger communication between business and technology teams while improving the consistency and reliability of critical information assets.
Known for his practical, real-world approach, Chris combines deep industry expertise with a passion for helping organizations understand the foundational role that data plays in achieving business success. His session brings decades of experience managing data assets at scale and offers valuable lessons that Business Analysts and data professionals can immediately apply within their own organizations.
When not working with data, Chris enjoys life in the American Southwest alongside his dog, Fred, and horse, Soñado, surrounded by the natural beauty and dark skies of New Mexico.
By registering for or attending this event, participants agree to comply with the Participant Code of Conduct. The organization reserves the right to restrict, suspend, or terminate participation when an individual's conduct materially interferes with the educational objectives of the program or negatively impacts the learning experience of other participants.