The EDM Council is proud to unveil DCAM v3, a landmark evolution of the Data Management Capability Assessment Model and the globally recognized standard for data management best practices. Data powers everything from AI innovation and cloud strategies to regulatory compliance and ESG reporting, so the release of DCAM v3 couldn’t be more timely. Built through extensive collaboration with our global community of data leaders across industries, DCAM v3 reflects today’s most urgent data realities – including rising complexity, expanding regulatory demands and growing pressure to transform data into a competitive, useful and valuable asset. This updated framework offers organizations a streamlined, future-ready model to assess, strengthen, and scale their data capabilities across business units, geographies, and technology stacks.
What’s new in DCAM v3?
- AI and Cloud-Ready: Enhanced guidance for AI deployment, cloud-native data ecosystems, and modern data pipelines.
- Deeper Focus on Governance and Security: Stronger alignment with privacy, security, and regulatory requirements.
- Streamlined Structure: A more intuitive, leaner framework that simplifies adoption while expanding functional depth.
- New Components and Capabilities: Introduces Business Data Knowledge, and consolidates architectural capabilities into one key component for greater clarity and cohesion.
- Support for Future Enhancements: Lays the groundwork for upcoming modules on data culture and risk control.
The EDM Council’s DCAM v3 model and its eight key components
“DCAM v3 is more than a framework – it’s a strategic tool for enabling measurable progress and supporting truly data-driven culture,” said Jim Halcomb, Chief Research & Development Officer, EDM Council.
DCAM supports organizations in navigating rapid data growth, unifying governance, improving literacy and building trust in data at every level. Crucially, DCAM powers the EDM Council’s Data Excellence Program, a structured path that helps enterprises achieve, and be formally recognized, for organizational-level data excellence through periodic assessments, tailored training, action plans, and benchmarking against a global peer set.
DCAM Resources and Partners
EDM Council members can access the framework via the EDM Council Knowledge Portal in early July 2025.
Registration is open now to Members for DCAM Training beginning in July as both full courses for v3 and an upgrade version for previously certified members.
The EDM Council’s Authorized Partners – nearly 50 in total – are ready to support members with assessments, advisory and bespoke training.
Not yet an EDM Council member but interested in DCAM and membership for your organization? Visit the EDM Council website or contact the team to learn more. We’re here to help you “join the data-driven”!