Part 7/12:
Today, modern software solutions are bridging this divide—many platforms can now handle both structured and unstructured data, perform batch and real-time processing, and adapt to diverse analytical needs. For instance, tools like Databricks and Snowflake are expanding their capabilities, allowing for lakehouse architectures that combine the best of both worlds.
Participants debated whether this convergence is advantageous or could potentially slow innovation due to complexity. Some expressed concern that trying to fit everything into a single platform might lead to compromises, but many acknowledged the benefits of unified data ecosystems—simplified data management, reduced duplication, and smoother integration for AI and machine learning.