22-25 April 2026

Building a Data Platform that Delivers ROI, Value, and AI Readiness

Proposed session for SQLBits 2026

TL; DR

This session breaks down the practical decisions behind designing and implementing a AI ready modern data platform, without diving into heavy technical detail. A clear, non-technical roadmap from two Microsoft MVPs who run a data consultancy.

Session Details

Whether you’re replatforming, starting a greenfield build, or simply preparing your organisation for AI, the number of technologies and decisions can feel overwhelming. Modern organisations are flooded with data, yet few see the return on investment they expect.

In this session, we’ll break down the practical decisions behind designing and implementing a modern data platform, without diving into heavy technical detail. It offers a clear, non-technical roadmap from two Microsoft MVPs who run a data consultancy and have led numerous data platform implementations that covers:

- What a data platform actually is and why it matters

- The key implementation steps: consolidating data, defining layers, MDM, governance, reporting, and AI readiness

- What you truly need to build and how to deliver ROI


This session is for architects, leaders, and decision-makers. No heavy technical detail. You'll leave with a practical framework for making confident decisions and delivering value faster.

3 things you'll get out of this session

Understand what a data and AI solution involves Understand the steps to implement one Understand how to consider ROI when building a solution