An architectural approach prioritizes data as the core asset within a system. This approach emphasizes the structure, quality, and accessibility of information, treating applications and processes as secondary elements that operate on this central resource. For instance, in a healthcare organization, patient records are not tied directly to a specific application but are instead managed as a unified dataset accessible by multiple relevant systems like billing, appointments, and medical history analysis.
This approach offers several advantages, including enhanced data consistency, improved data governance, and increased agility. By centralizing data management, organizations can establish clearer data ownership and compliance policies. The emphasis on data as a strategic resource enables more informed decision-making, promotes interoperability between systems, and reduces data redundancy. Historically, systems were application-centric, leading to data silos and integration challenges. The shift recognizes the long-term value of information and its potential to drive innovation.
