What is a registry as it applies to Master Data?

A registry in the context of Master Data Management (MDM) is a centralized index that maintains pointers to master data located in various systems of record. This type of architecture is commonly referred to as a "registry" model and allows organizations to create a unified view of their master data without consolidating the actual data into a single repository. The registry acts as a directory, providing metadata and linkage information to the actual data sources.

References:

DAMA-DMBOK2 Guide: Chapter 10 – Master and Reference Data Management

"Master Data Management: Creating a Single Source of Truth" by David Loshin