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Architecture

98 posts filed under Architecture.

Mar 26, 2026 Data Architecture & Strategy

The Real-Time Data Paradox - Everyone Wants It, Few Need It

90% of "we need real-time" conversations end with a batch job running at midnight.

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Mar 21, 2026 Data Architecture & Strategy

The Medallion Architecture Backlash

Bronze, Silver, Gold. Three layers that make sense on a slide and fall apart the moment someone asks "where does this transformation …

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Mar 19, 2026 Organizational Dynamics

The Feedback Loop - Why Data Incidents Keep Recurring

Your data team hides problems because they'll get blamed for them. The Unicorn Project calls this the downward spiral. Here's how to break …

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Mar 6, 2026 Data Architecture & Strategy

Horizontal vs Vertical Scaling

Vertical scaling is adding RAM. Horizontal scaling is adding servers. One has a ceiling. One doesn't.

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Mar 2, 2026 Organizational Dynamics + Technical Debt & Economics

Parts Unlimited" Is Your Data Platform

The Phoenix Project described a company drowning in unplanned work. Gene Kim called it Parts Unlimited. You might recognize the patterns.

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Feb 25, 2026 Organizational Dynamics

The Shadow IT Problem - When Fast Beats Right

Shadow IT doesn't start with rogue employees. It starts when the gap between 'I need this' and 'we can deliver this' gets too wide.

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Feb 24, 2026 Data Architecture & Strategy

The 6 Dimensions of Data Quality

Data quality has 6 dimensions. Most teams only measure 2. Here's what you're missing.

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Feb 22, 2026 MVP to Platform

Platform Scaling Without Hiring

Five times the data. Same number of people. No new hires. The only way through? Rethink the architecture.

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Feb 20, 2026 Data Architecture & Strategy

Data Architecture Review - What's Actually Involved

A data architecture review uncovers hidden risks before they become expensive problems. Here's what mine covers and why most teams need one …

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Feb 20, 2026 Organizational Dynamics

Why Companies Hire a Data Architect Consultant (And When You Shouldn't)

You don't always need a data architect consultant. Here's how to know if you do, what to expect, and how to avoid hiring the wrong person.

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