MASTERÂ Assignment
Towards a Data Mesh Reference Architecture
Type : Master M-BIT
Period: December, 2023 - May, 2024
Student : Werf, D.R. van der (Daniel, Student M-BIT)
Date Final project: May 22, 2024
Supervisors:
Abstract:
This thesis aims to develop a comprehensive data mesh reference architecture, based on the ArchiMate enterprise architecture modelling language, to guide organizations in designing data mesh solution architectures. The data mesh reference architecture consists of 3 parts, which represent the main components of a data mesh, the domain architecture, the self-serve data platform architecture, and the federated governance architecture. The data mesh RA was developed using a 6 step method to develop empirically grounded reference architectures. A systematic investigates data mesh archetypes, components, challenges and limitations. Additionally, the motivational factors and prerequisites to a data mesh implementation were identified. The impact of data meshes onto the organization was assessed and additionally, other data methodologies were compared with the data mesh to provide insights in alternative data architecture approaches.