Data mart definition
A data mart is a specialized database that stores and manages data focused on a particular business function or department (e.g., sales, marketing, or finance). Data marts in businesses and organizations give users easy access to relevant information for various purposes — whether it’s tracking sales trends or analyzing marketing metrics.
Teams within a business use data marts to extract relevant and useful information that supports their work. A data mart makes it easier for teams to find this information quickly and helps them make better decisions.
See also: data marketplace
Data mart types
- Dependent. Dependent data marts are created as a subset of a central data hub in an organization and are designed to support the needs of a particular department. They are called “dependent” because they use the central hub as their primary data source.
- Independent. Independent data marts are standalone solutions tailored to individual departments. They don’t use the main data hub and are often quicker to implement since they focus on the specific department’s needs.
- Hybrid. Hybrid data marts combine central data warehouse integration with department-specific requirements. They’re partially integrated with the central data hub for consistency and accuracy — but also tailored to the specific needs of a particular department.
Examples of data marts
- Retail sales data mart. A retail company could create a data mart focused on sales transactions or customer purchases. This data mart would help track product performance, optimize inventory, and plan promotions.
- Patient care data mart. In a hospital setting, a data mart could store patient records, medical histories, treatment outcomes, and prescription information. The data could improve patient care and monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Financial investment data mart. An investment firm could set up a data mart to manage investment portfolios and see how their assets are performing. Financial analysts could use this data mart to make informed investment decisions.
