What is Data as Code?

This is the Make Me a Programmer glossary entry for data as code.

What is Data as Code? A Quick Definition

Data as Code is an approach that applies software development practices like version control, automation, and collaboration to the management of data. It treats data as a critical, versioned asset within the software development lifecycle, much like source code. By storing datasets in version control systems such as Git, teams can track changes, maintain a history of modifications, and roll back to earlier versions if needed. This makes workflows more transparent, reproducible, and collaborative, especially in contexts like machine learning, analytics, or data-driven application development.

The concept also emphasizes automation and integration. Using CI/CD pipelines and validation tools, data can be tested and deployed with the same rigor as code. For example, schemas and rules can validate data integrity before it’s introduced into production environments, reducing the likelihood of errors. By embedding data workflows into existing software development processes, organizations create a unified system where data and code are tightly coupled, fostering efficiency, consistency, and scalability in data-driven projects.

Data as Code, Explained Like You’re Five

Imagine you have a big coloring book, and every day, you add new pictures or change some of the colors. To keep track of all the changes, you write down everything you did in a special notebook: which pages you colored, which crayons you used, and when you made the changes. That way, if you ever want to go back to an earlier picture or show your friends how you made it, you can.

Data as Code is like that special notebook, but for computers and their information. It helps people keep track of changes to data, share it with others, and make sure everything is neat and correct, just like you do with your coloring book.

Data as Code, Explained for Non-Techies

Data as Code is a way of managing information (data) using the same tools and methods that software developers use to manage their programs (code). Think of it like creating a recipe book where every change to a recipe is carefully tracked, so you always know who made changes, what was changed, and when it happened. If you make a mistake, you can easily go back to a previous version of the recipe.

This approach ensures that data is well-organized, up-to-date, and reliable. It also makes it easier for teams to work together because everyone can see the same “recipe book,” suggest changes, and agree on updates. Additionally, automated checks can make sure the data is accurate and ready to use, much like proofreading a recipe to ensure it works before sharing it with others.

Data as Code, Explained for Beginner Techies

Data as Code is a method of managing data by applying the same principles and tools used in software development, like version control and automation. Instead of just storing data in files or databases, you treat it as if it were part of your program’s code. This means every change to the data is tracked, documented, and managed in an organized way, making it easy to go back to earlier versions or understand who made changes and why.

For example, you might use tools like Git to store your datasets. This lets you track updates, collaborate with others through pull requests, and ensure the data meets certain rules or standards by running automated tests. It’s especially useful in fields like machine learning, analytics, or DevOps, where data often evolves over time and must stay consistent and reliable to avoid errors in the systems that depend on it. By treating data like code, you make your workflows more efficient, reproducible, and scalable.

Further Reading

• If you’re interested in learning more about data as code, check out this explainer.