For over a decade, we have sought a holistic, unifying theory of data management. This presentation documents the quest, and touches on the data and analytics infrastructure model (DAIM), metadata, data fabric, data ecosystems, and FinOps. Each of these is required and together they address everything from infrastructure to AI to strategy communications.

Data ecosystems, built on data fabric design and infused with AI, promise an integrated, cost effective, and operationally simple approach to varied data management challenges. However, they don't yet always deliver on that promise. This research explores the maturity of various ecosystem components and provides a guide for D&A leaders and others looking to invest in data foundations for competitive differentiation.

Data and analytics leaders must operate within the realities of the geopolitical impacts that we now face. These include an increased focus on contingency planning for diverse vendor selection, avoid reliance on products or technologies that may be subject to trade policies or other restrictions and confronting increased costs.