The data steward needs a general understanding of typical Windows desktop applications. Since most of their work will be completed using the InterAction Windows Client, they must be comfortable and confident working in this environment. A familiarity with and access to other applications that the organization uses to manage client information would also be a benefit; these systems can be checked when researching conflicting information. Other specific skills include the following:
- Advanced InterAction user skills - The data stewards work almost exclusively in the InterAction Windows Client software.
- Familiarity with the content, structure, and security of the contact type and related InterAction folder - An important part of managing a collection of contacts is to be familiar not only with the contacts but how they are stored in InterAction and who has access to them.
- Authority over the data - Data stewards must have the ability to make decisions. They must decisions about which changes are correct and which changes should be rejected.
- Understanding of policies and protocols - Data stewards often need to contact others to validate data; knowing who to call will greatly assist them in this process.
- Research skills - A data steward often has to verify information entered by a user. Being familiar with methods of finding information is very helpful, as well as being extremely detail oriented.