About This Data Online Course
In today’s data-driven defense environment, the ability to access and interpret reliable, standardized information is critical to mission success.
For the U.S. Department of Defense, data dictionaries serve as foundational tools that ensure consistency, accuracy and interoperability across complex systems, organizations and operational environments. Without standardized definitions and structures, data can become fragmented, misinterpreted or misapplied—leading to inefficiencies, operational delays or risks to mission execution.
As the DoD increasingly integrates artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to enhance decision-making and warfighter readiness, the need for high-quality, clearly defined data becomes even more urgent.
Data dictionaries enable AI systems to process structured, trustworthy information and help ensure compliance with governance frameworks and security protocols. They are vital for maintaining a shared understanding of data across roles, commands and technologies—ultimately strengthening enterprise-wide data integrity and operational effectiveness.
This online training course provides a comprehensive overview of data dictionaries and their essential role in supporting data quality, interoperability and mission success across the DoD. You will explore the fundamentals of data dictionaries, their application in defense operations and the six key stages required to develop and maintain them in alignment with DoD standards and governance frameworks.
Using a defense-oriented, scenario-based approach grounded in a defense situation, the course will guide you through each phase of the data dictionary development process—from scoping and planning to implementation and maintenance. The online training includes practical examples, stakeholder engagement strategies, metadata best practices and alignment with DoD policies, such as the DoD Architecture Framework and Defense Information System Agency guidelines.
By the end of this online course, you will understand the fundamentals of building high-quality, standardized data dictionaries that support effective decision-making, operational efficiency and secure, responsible data use across defense environments.
What You Will Learn
- Understand the purpose and importance of data dictionaries in DoD contexts
- Explore a structured process for creating and maintaining data dictionaries
- Describe data dictionary best practices tailored to defense organizations
This online course is the fourth in a new FedLearn online training series on data management practices specific to the Department and is aligned with DoD strategies.
Who Should Take This Online Course
This online training course is designed for any defense or intelligence professional working for the Federal government or a government contractor company interested in gaining new knowledge and skills regarding data management—specific to the DoD.
More seasoned professionals will also benefit from taking the course to obtain a refresher on key definitions and concepts.
Prerequisites
None. However, completion of Introduction to Basic Data Management (AIDATA108) s highly recommended.
After successful completion, enrollment in other courses in our DoD-centric data learning series, like DoD Data Management Practices: Data Quality Dimensions (AIDATA110), DoD Data Management Practices: VAULTIS Framework (AIDATA111) and Introduction to the DoD Data Steward Role and Responsibilities (DATAMGT101).
Course Certificate
To achieve a course certificate of completion, you must score 80 percent or higher on a graded final exam.
Self-paced, online training course
Course Pricing
Individual courses are $14.99 (per person).
Seat licenses to access the entire FedLearn AI and data science catalog are also available. Click here to learn more and purchase
If you are interested in learning about special team rates for Federal government and government contractor organizations, email [email protected]
Continuing Education Unit Credits
This course provides 1 CEU.
