The text discusses the challenges and inefficiencies associated with data migrations, contrasting them with the high-leverage work typically valued in data engineering. While high-leverage engineers enhance productivity by creating scalable systems and automations, data migrations are depicted as short-term, fragile tasks that consume significant resources and time without yielding reusable outcomes. Despite being crucial due to their high stakes, these migrations often divert top engineers from more impactful work, transforming them into translators and auditors of SQL and spreadsheets. The process is described as costly and unsustainable, highlighting a need for better scaling solutions to avoid draining organizational momentum and delaying project timelines.