This talk explores a tried-and-tested approach to designing, implementing, and governing data products.

Since data mesh emerged half a decade ago, many organizations have embraced its vision but encountered challenges putting it into practice. Drawing on real-world experience, the session provides practical guidance to help organizations start effectively.

Emphasizing the concept of data products as the architectural quantum of the data mesh, the talk clarifies what data products are—and what they aren’t. It demonstrates how to design data products by working backward from use cases, ensuring they deliver tangible value. Key implementation patterns that have proven effective and adaptable across various contexts are presented. Additionally, the session introduces a unique governance method employing fitness functions, ensuring data products remain aligned with organizational needs over time.

Intended for both technical and non-technical data leaders beginning their data product journey, attendees leave with actionable insights and strategies—coming directly from practitioners who helped shape the data mesh paradigm.

First delivered at "Data mesh live 2025", Antwerp. https://2025.datameshlive.com/program/what-we-talk-about-when-we-talk-about-data-products/