Is Data Vault Right For You?

Rhys Hanscombe
Sep 10
2 min read

Based on our episode 2 of The Business Thinking Podcast with our CEO, Neil Strange, and AutomateDV Product Manager, Alex Higgs.

With so many options available like Medallion, Data Mesh, Data Lakes, and Delta Lakes, why should you consider Data Vault?

Neil and Alex break down the advantages of Data Vault, including faster iteration, better integration, and enhanced data quality.

Why Data Vault?

If you're building a new data platform or upgrading your existing one, you might be wondering how Data Vault compares to other approaches like Data Mesh or Data Lakes.

1. Faster Iteration

Alex explains that Data Vault allows you to introduce new capabilities quickly:

Works well with agile methods, helping you deliver business value faster.
You can build a small part of the warehouse, deliver value, then scale incrementally.
Existing data can be reused for new use cases over time.

2. Better Integration Across Systems

Unlike Data Lakes, which store data in its raw form, Data Vault transforms data during loading:

Ideal for industries with multiple source systems (insurance, finance, healthcare).
Combines data from different systems into a single source of truth.
Enables semantic integration based on business concepts (e.g., customer, order).

3. Semantic Integration for AI

Clean, well-structured data improves AI performance:

Data Vault enables clear labeling of data (e.g., distinguishing between active and past customers).
AI models deliver more accurate insights when data is properly structured.

4. Stronger Data Quality and Governance

Data Vault ensures high-quality data input and consistent processing:

Manages different data streams (batch, real-time) with built-in consistency checks.
Handles out-of-sync data and ensures clean, structured data for AI.

Why Skills Aren't a Barrier

Concerned about training and skills? Neil and Alex clarify that:

Data Vault’s data engineering process is largely automated.
Metadata drives load patterns, reducing manual effort.
Data modeling is a growing need in data strategy and governance—learning Data Vault sets you up for success.

Want to Learn More?

Join the Data Vault User Group for regular meetups and discussions.
Check out our free training: Data Vault: Core Concepts.

If you have questions or want us to cover specific topics, leave a comment or get in touch!