An operational data layer is there to support a business with their operations. Operationalizing means that you are putting your data into operation, versus just doing data tasks and not making use of them. An operational data layer means that it is an intelligent and well structured layer to move data into the organization to deliver outcomes. It aggregates and integrates data from multiple sources, providing a unified, current view of the data necessary for day-to-day business functions. Hence, it is both the infrastructure and the tooling to deliver data to the organization.