Data Storage and Operations includes the design, implementation, and support of stored data, to maximize its value throughout its lifecycle, from creation/acquisition to disposal. Data Storage and Operations includes two sub-activities:

• Database support focuses on activities related to the data lifecycle, from initial implementation of a database environment, through obtaining, backing up, and purging data. It also includes ensuring the database performs well. Monitoring and tuning are critical to database support.

• Database technology support includes defining technical requirements that will meet organizational needs, defining technical architecture, installing and administering technology, and resolving issues related to technology.

Database administrators (DBAs) play key roles in both aspects of data storage and operations. The role of DBA is the most established and most widely adopted data professional role, and database administration practices are perhaps the most mature of all data management practices. DBAs also play dominant roles in data operations and data security.