Deciphering Data Architectures full-day workshop
Proposed session for SQLBits 2026TL; DR
This workshop defines big data and core architecture concepts, then explains warehouses, lakes, marts, virtualization, ETL vs. ELT, and compares Modern Data Warehouse, Data Fabric, Lakehouse, and Data Mesh, highlighting pros, cons, and practical considerations.
Session Details
This pre-conference workshop will begin by defining 'big data' and clarifying various data architecture concepts to establish a solid foundation of understanding before delving into specific data architectures. Topics to be covered include relational data warehouses, data lakes, data marts, data virtualization, and the differences between ETL and ELT. James will then explore and compare the architectures of the Modern Data Warehouse, Data Fabric, Data Lakehouse, and Data Mesh in considerable detail, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages. While these concepts may seem appealing in theory, James will address potential concerns to consider before implementation. This workshop aims to demystify these complex topics, offering ample opportunity for questions. The content is derived from James's book "Deciphering Data Architectures: Choosing Between a Modern Data Warehouse, Data Fabric, Data Lakehouse, and Data Mesh."
3 things you'll get out of this session
Provide a foundational understanding of big data and core data architecture concepts.
Explain and compare major architectures—Modern Data Warehouse, Data Fabric, Lakehouse, and Data Mesh.
Equip attendees to evaluate pros, cons, and implementation considerations for each approach.
Speakers
Paul Andrew's other proposed sessions for 2026
Build a Lakehouse in a Day with Metadata & Open-Source Tools - 2026
An Evolution of Cloud Data Architectures - Lambda, Kappa, Delta, Mesh & Fabric - 2026
An Introduction to Delta Lake and The Lakehouse - 2026
Building Near Real-time Data Solutions in Microsoft Azure & Fabric - 2026
Data & Community: An Amazing Network Of Peers Supporting Innovation & Growth - 2026
Data Modelling: The Lost Art of Turning Inputs into Insights - 2026
Designing & Delivering Data Products: From Mesh Principles to Data Fabric Automation - 2026
Fabric Data Activator: Real-Time Data Feeds, Automated Alerts & Stock Intelligence - 2026
Fast-Track Your Lakehouse Build with a Metadata Framework - 2026
Microsoft Fabric Platform Governance - Where To Start - 2026
James Serra
jamesserra.com
James Serra's other proposed sessions for 2026
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How to build your career - 2026
Learning to present and becoming good at it - 2026
Using Generative AI on Structured and Semi-structured Data - 2026