What Is a Data Product?

A data product is a curated and accessible dataset with embedded metadata, designed for easy discovery and consistent use, primarily created by domain teams with specific business purposes in mind. Unlike raw data, data products emphasize ownership, governance, and accountability, ensuring high integrity and portability, thus addressing traditional collaboration challenges within organizations. Data products apply product thinking to data management, involving active lifecycle management and stakeholder feedback, similar to product management practices. They are particularly valuable for artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, as they provide the context-rich metadata necessary for AI models to generate accurate results, reducing issues like AI hallucinations by offering clear data lineage, ownership, and quality controls. Platforms like Starburst facilitate the creation and management of data products at scale by enabling universal data access, integrating security and governance features, and enhancing AI and analytics capabilities with metadata-rich datasets. Data products serve as actively managed and governed assets, distinct from traditional data catalogs, making them crucial for organizations aiming to leverage AI effectively and maintain compliance across varied data sources.