What Is a Federated Graph?

What is a federated graph, and how does it function in data engineering?

A federated graph in data engineering refers to a system where multiple independent data sources are interconnected to form a unified, virtual graph. This system allows users to seamlessly query across all data sources as if they were a single, cohesive dataset without physically moving or replicating the underlying data. Federated graphs provide a single access point to a distributed data landscape, often implemented using GraphQL Federation technology.

The federated graph system works by maintaining distributed data ownership, where each data source retains its own data and schema. A centralized query interface, known as a "gateway" service, acts as a single entry point for queries. This gateway directs requests to the appropriate data sources based on query parameters. Schema composition allows different data sources to contribute their schema definitions to the federated graph, enabling a unified view of related data across systems. Queries retrieve only the necessary data from each source, minimizing data transfer and improving performance.

What are the benefits of using a federated graph?

Federated graphs offer several advantages that enhance data management and accessibility. Users can easily query data from multiple sources without needing to know the specific location or structure of each dataset, promoting improved data accessibility. This approach also supports decoupling and scalability, allowing for independent development and deployment of data services, which facilitates easier scaling and maintenance. Furthermore, federated graphs enable seamless integration of data from different microservices into a single, unified view.

How does GraphQL Federation implement a federated graph?

GraphQL Federation is a popular implementation of federated graphs. It allows each microservice to expose its own GraphQL schema, which a central "gateway" service combines to create a unified federated graph. This approach facilitates efficient data retrieval and management across distributed sources.

Key features of GraphQL Federation

GraphQL Federation includes several key features that enhance its functionality:

• Entity sharing: Different services can define shared entities with common fields, allowing for relationships across data sources.
• Subgraph definitions: Each service specifies its own subgraph, which is then merged into the overall federated graph.

What are some use cases for federated graphs?

Federated graphs are particularly useful in scenarios where data integration from diverse sources is required. For example, they can be used to create a comprehensive customer profile by combining data from different customer systems, such as CRM, sales, and marketing. This unified view allows businesses to better understand and serve their customers.

1. Customer 360 view

Federated graphs can combine data from different customer systems, such as CRM, sales, and marketing, to create a comprehensive customer profile. This unified view allows businesses to better understand and serve their customers.

2. Product information aggregator

By pulling together product details from multiple inventory systems and supplier databases, federated graphs can create a centralized view of product information, aiding in inventory management and supply chain optimization.

3. Complex data ecosystems

In large organizations with diverse data sources, federated graphs facilitate the integration of data across departments, enabling more efficient data analysis and decision-making processes.

What is Secoda and how does it empower data stakeholders?

Secoda is a data catalog platform crafted to empower both data engineers and non-technical stakeholders. It enables efficient discovery, understanding, and utilization of data through its user-friendly interface. This platform simplifies navigation through data governance processes with a comprehensive catalog that includes features such as automated metadata management, data lineage tracking, and intuitive search capabilities.

By acting as a central hub for data governance, Secoda caters to users with varying levels of technical expertise. It boasts robust data governance tools that centralize the management of practices like defining data ownership, setting access controls, and monitoring data quality. This ensures data integrity for technical teams while assisting non-technical users in understanding data usage and compliance.

What are the key features of Secoda?

Secoda's platform is designed with several key features that enhance its usability for both technical and non-technical users. These features include:

• User-friendly design: Allows non-technical users to easily search for data, view data lineage, and grasp data context without needing advanced technical knowledge.
• Automated metadata management: Captures and updates metadata across various data sources, providing crucial information for data engineers managing pipelines and non-technical users exploring data usage.
• Data lineage tracking: Visualizes the origin and transformations of data, enabling stakeholders to assess data quality and support informed decision-making.
• Comprehensive data governance tools: Centralizes management practices such as defining data ownership, setting access controls, and monitoring data quality.
• Intuitive search capabilities: Simplifies the process of finding and understanding data, making it accessible to users of all expertise levels.

How does Secoda bridge the gap between technical and non-technical users?

Secoda effectively bridges the gap between technical and non-technical users by offering a powerful, accessible tool for data governance and management. Its user-friendly design ensures that even those without advanced technical skills can navigate and utilize the platform effectively. By automating metadata management and providing clear data lineage tracking, Secoda ensures that all stakeholders have the information they need to make informed decisions.

The platform's comprehensive data governance tools allow for centralized management of data practices, which benefits both technical teams focused on maintaining data integrity and non-technical users interested in understanding data usage and compliance. This dual focus allows Secoda to serve as a valuable resource for a wide range of users.

Ready to experience the benefits of Secoda for yourself? Get started today and see how it can transform your data governance processes.