Data Platform Industrialisation with CI/CD and Terraform

Industrialisation, CI/CD and Terraform aren’t just for applications, infrastructure or digital. They’re also very well-suited to data platforms.

Introduction

Many companies understand the benefits of an industrialised and automated data platform. However, some still need to realise the full potential. This may be because they haven’t transitioned to the cloud or are replicating outdated practices. This article provides a testimonial for those still hesitant about industrialising their data platform.

The Cloud Has Changed Everything

Cloud technology has revolutionised software development and deployment. Consequently, DevOps and CI/CD methodologies, once rare in traditional data platforms, are now standard in the cloud and digital ecosystem. This shift has ushered in a new era where industrialising cloud data foundations is crucial for security, productivity, and minimising manual operations. Let’s explore how this industrialisation transforms data management and value in modern cloud platforms.

CI/CD and Terraform: A Dynamic Duo

Adopting CI/CD practices in cloud data platforms is a game-changer. By continuously integrating and automating deployments with Terraform, an infrastructure-as-code solution, data teams can deploy and manage data environments more agilely and securely. As a result, tasks like creating new schemas, managing RBAC, and provisioning on-the-fly environments are now automated.

The “Schemachange” Example: Tracking and Versioning Database Object Schemas

Tracking and versioning data schemas is vital for maintaining data integrity and quality. For example, a system like Schemachange ensures systematic and controlled data structure evolution. This tool is essential for Database Change Management (DCM) and, combined with CI/CD, enables DevOps across the entire data chain. However, dbt is rapidly gaining traction for data modelling with its expanding features and adoption.

The End of Obsolete Practices

Copying and pasting SQL commands from Notepad files is finally obsolete. Database access is now secure, auditable, and automated, improving teamwork and reliability. For example, one of my customers recently reported a fivefold increase in delivery productivity and a threefold cost reduction after implementing these practices.

Conclusion

The cloud is driving significant changes in software processes through industrialisation, and data platforms are reaping the benefits. These practices demand new skills in cloud architecture, DevOps, and DataOps, shaping the future of data management. While these skills may be new to some traditional BI profiles, the investment is worthwhile. It’s never too late to automate your foundation. Even if you transitioned to the cloud years ago, adopting CI/CD and Terraform can still be beneficial.