Deploying and configuring Microsoft SQL Server 2012 SP1 Master Data Services (MDS) involves a three-phase setup process. MDS provides a centralized repo to govern, validate, and manage business-critical reference data. Phase 1: Install the MDS Feature
You must first install the necessary shared binaries using the SQL Server installation media.
Launch Setup: Run setup.exe from your SQL Server 2012 SP1 media.
Add Features: Select New SQL Server stand-alone installation or add features to an existing installation.
Feature Selection: Advance through the wizard to the Feature Selection window. Under Shared Features, check the box for Master Data Services.
Complete Installation: Finish the wizard to deploy the MDS Configuration Manager, PowerShell snap-ins, and core application files. Phase 2: Create the MDS Database
Once the binaries are placed, you must build the backend repository using the configuration tool.
Open Configuration Manager: Go to Start > Microsoft SQL Server 2012 > Master Data Services > Master Data Services Configuration Manager.
Initiate DB Wizard: Click Database Configuration in the left menu, then click Create Database.
Connect to Instance: Specify your local or remote SQL Server 2012 Engine instance and authenticate with an account holding sysadmin rights.
Name and Collation: Enter a meaningful database name (e.g., MDS_Config) and select your preferred collation settings.
Assign Super User: Define a Windows account to act as the default MDS Super User. This user gets administrative access across all created data models.
Finish: Click through the summary and allow the wizard to build the underlying tables, views, and schemas. Phase 3: Configure the Web Application
MDS uses an Internet Information Services (IIS) hosted web application to provide the “Master Data Manager” interface. Master Data Services (MDS) Operations Guide