Golden Record
The single, authoritative version of a master data entity — the one definition that all other systems are expected to use and synchronize against.
Why it matters
The golden record concept resolves the fundamental problem of multiple systems having conflicting definitions of the same entity. In PLM, establishing which system holds the golden record for which entities (PLM for parts and BOMs; ERP for vendors and pricing) is the most critical governance decision in any enterprise integration project.
External References
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Cite this definition
Finocchiaro, Michael. “Golden Record.” DemystifyingPLM PLM Glossary, 2026, https://www.demystifyingplm.com/glossary/golden-record