Structuring Data and Analytics Teams for Impact

July 3, 2025July 4, 2025 by Vik

As more companies invest heavily in data as they grow, the question of how to structure the data and analytics function becomes increasingly important. It is not just about reporting lines or team charters. Structure influences how effectively data is used, how talent is retained, and how aligned the team is to business priorities. In my experience, I have seen a range of models in action: centralized teams, embedded analysts, and hub-and-spoke hybrids. I have …

Data Contracts: Hype, Reality, and Practical Value

May 16, 2025May 16, 2025 by Vik

Over the past few years, data contracts have surged in popularity—touted as the missing link between data producers and consumers. Yet as with most trends in data architecture, hype often outpaces practical value. Let’s break down where data contracts truly shine, where they fall short, and how to think about them in the broader context of building scalable, trustworthy data platforms—and enabling effective data governance at scale. What Are Data Contracts, Really? At their core, data contracts …