The Foundation Data Model

As of January 2021, the Foundation Data Model (FDM) replaced WSU’s Chart of Accounts. It’s how we manage transactions in Workday. The FDM is a multi-dimensional data structure that serves as the backbone for transaction processing and reporting done within Workday. Its structure maximizes reporting capabilities.

To develop the Foundation Data Model, analysts used feedback from subject matter experts to build several draft blueprints that we tested in each prototype of Workday for WSU.

SPOTLIGHT ON: WORKTAGS

The FDM allows users to attach common attributes, or “worktags,” to transactions. Instead of entering an accounting code string like we do in the current system, users will choose worktags to describe the transaction’s business purpose. 

  • Worktags are either “Driver Worktags” or “Related Worktags.”
  • Driver Worktags include: program, project, grant, gift, and cost center. You’ll select one of these when you process a transaction.
  • Related Worktags include: fund, region, function, and cost center. Once a Driver Worktag is selected, Workday will populate Related Worktags depending on the Driver Worktag you chose. You will then validate or update each value Workday populates. Related Worktags are mandatory. Note: If you choose cost center as your Driver Worktag in step one, you won’t need to select it again in step two.

Download a printable handout about the FDM and worktags

The FDM will include the individual segments of what has historically been called the Chart of Accounts. The FDM includes both financial and human resource components. Some examples of worktags under finance and human resources include:

Finance

Human Resources

  • Cost Center
  • Grant
  • Gift
  • Ledger Account
  • Region
  • Program
  • Project
  • Revenue Category
  • Spend Category
  • Supervisory Organizations
  • Worker Types
  • Job Classification Groups
  • Cost Center