Building a Solid Data Layer for Your Startup: Avoid These Critical Pitfalls!
The data layer is the foundation of any modern tech system, especially for startups. It refers to the architecture, processes, and technologies that manage and store the data your business collects. It ensures that data is accessible, secure, and can be used to drive insights, decision-making, and product development. However, when not designed properly, a poorly built data layer can lead to technical debt, inefficiencies, and costly mistakes.
In this Lunch & Learn session, we’ll explore the red flags you need to watch out for when constructing your data layer and discuss actionable strategies to avoid or minimize these issues.
What to Expect
We'll cover a range of potential red flags that could derail your data strategy, including:
- Lack of Clear Purpose: Building features or collecting data without understanding how it fits into your broader goals.
- Prioritizing Technology Over Processes: The importance of defining your processes before jumping into tool selection.
- Ignoring Stakeholders & the Bigger Picture: Understanding how your data layer impacts all parts of your business.
- Mixing Analytics and Operational Workloads: The risks of running analytics directly on your operational databases.
- Lack of Documentation & Knowledge Sharing: Why thorough documentation and fostering collaboration are essential for scalability.
- Overlooking Data Quality & Governance: How to avoid poor data quality and establish strong governance from day one.
- Ignoring Security & Compliance: Addressing security and compliance issues early to prevent costly mistakes.
🔧 Why It Matters
Understanding these common pitfalls will help you design a scalable, efficient, and secure data layer that can grow with your startup while minimizing technical debt and operational inefficiencies.
🎓 Who Should Attend?
This session is perfect for startup founders, product managers, engineers, and anyone involved in building or managing data systems. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your current infrastructure, this lunch & learn will provide valuable insights to ensure your data strategy is on track.
Shirosh is a Data Strategist and Collibra Ranger, helping organisations transform data into powerful strategic assets. With expertise in data strategy, governance, and management, Shirosh designs and implements tailored data strategies and products that drive business growth and align with organisational goals.
