Data as an Asset

Adopt the
Data Product
Mindset.

Shift your mindset from treating data as a secondary output of software applications to recognizing it as a primary product with the potential to provide instant, quantifiable benefits to its users.

Data Product 101 Diagram

The Paradigm Shift

Shifting from a conventional 'Project' approach to a contemporary 'Product' approach is crucial for maximizing data impact.

IT Project Mindset

  • Data is often seen as a byproduct of operational systems.
  • Success is measured by "on time and on budget" delivery.
  • Siloed teams throw requirements over the wall to data engineering.
  • Once delivered, pipelines are often left unmaintained until they break.

Data Product Mindset

  • Data is a valuable, curated asset built specifically for end-users.
  • Success is measured by adoption, usability, and business value generated.
  • Cross-functional teams manage the continuous lifecycle of the data.
  • Backed by strict SLAs, continuous monitoring, and clear documentation.

Anatomy of a True Data Product

For data to qualify as a product, it must have these essential traits to provide a seamless experience for those who use it.

Discoverable

Consumers have no trouble locating the data product with a centralized catalog that includes comprehensive metadata and search functions.

Addressable

Offers a distinctive, systematic approach for data access through API endpoints, standard SQL interfaces, and standardized file paths.

Trustworthy

Data quality is consistently monitored and maintained through the publication and adherence to SLAs and SLOs, fostering consumer trust.

Self-Describing

Creators do not need to ask how to use it as schema, semantics, and usage examples are embedded or closely linked.

Secure

Access control is an integral part of the system design, ensuring data governance and compliance with regulations through standardized policies.

Interoperable

Adheres to worldwide organizational norms for layout and meaning, enabling seamless integration with other data sets.

Ready to treat your data like a product?

Begin by determining your most important data domain. Appoint a Data Product Manager, identify your target audience, and create your initial data product now.