Everyday when I check my LinkedIn feed I see well intentioned posts with colorful flow and architectural diagrams depicting a technology or functional stack or some combination thereof to present a framework. I have seen posts with frameworks on:
Data Governance framework
AI Governance framework
Agentic AI framework
Supply Chain framework
Medallion Architecture framework
Composable Customer 360 framework
I could go on and on :-)
These frameworks have capabilities. For example a Data Governance framework could have DCAM / DAMA based capabilities such as data literacy and data quality. The capabilities are associated with definitions, KPIs, OKRs, etc. and if there is a framework undoubtedly there is a maturity model associated with it!
I pride myself in being a Data and Analytics practitioner working with clients in their respective data journeys at times helping them launch their data programs and at other times helping them correct their course.
I am perfectly fine if the frameworks are meant as guiding principles. However I have seen a multitude of professionals present their frameworks as gospel truth and creating a perception that their framework is the singular approach of achieving an outcome. Recently I enjoyed watching a YouTube video on "What's wrong with the Medallion Architecture" by someone from Databricks itself. I thoroughly enjoyed the video as it made the case in point ... Why frameworks fail. [or Why strict adherence to framework fails].
Having an understanding of frameworks is absolutely critical however each business solution is crafted in its own context and culture with a collaboration between business and technology.
It is not my intention to preach the choir. I bet that there are multitude of you who share my viewpoint or are more experienced than I am. As usual my purpose is start a healthy conversation...
Your friendly Neighborhood Data Guy
LinkedIn Post: Why frameworks fail