What is a Dataset? Emerging Core Concepts in the Modern Data Stack

Datasets are one of the fundamental concepts in data work: as data practitioners, we use the word all the time in colloquial day-to-day conversations. Many different data tools have independently converged on similar concepts. However—like many concepts in the modern data stack—the exact meaning, properties, and capabilities of Datasets differ in subtle but important ways. Concepts like Datasets will define the next generation of data work. The cornerstone of “the modern data stack” is a new set of tools, abstractions, and metadata that map more tightly to the real work that data practitioners need to do. This panel brings together leading tool builders and practitioners in the data community to discuss that evolution. We’ll start by comparing and contrasting different approaches to Datasets. From there, we’ll branch out into an open discussion about relative strengths and weaknesses of different approaches, and alignment (or lack thereof) between tools and systems. This talk will be useful for data practitioners looking to understand how the field is evolving, and how new tools are enabling those changes.