How can organizations ensure that their data pipelines deliver consistent, trustworthy insights without frequent disruptions? In this episode of the Talking AI podcast, host Matt Paige co-host Omar Shanti, CTO of HatchWorks AI, speak with Andrew Jones, Principal Engineer at GoCardless, about the concept and practice of data contracts. Andrew explains what data contracts are, why they emerged, and how they improve data reliability and collaboration.

The discussion explores how data contracts relate to data mesh and platform thinking, helping teams share responsibility for data while maintaining clear standards. Andrew and Omar share examples of data contracts addressing issues like schema changes, governance, and data quality.

They also consider how data contracts support AI initiatives by ensuring that the data feeding into models is accurate and reliable. Practical steps are given, including starting with a clear problem and involving the right people.

Andrew provides resources for deeper learning, including his book and online materials. Matt and Omar also mention an upcoming webinar on data contracts, inviting listeners to learn more and move toward more structured, dependable data practices.

Key Moments:

• Introduction to data contracts and their purpose
• Highlighting the common reliability issues that data contracts can prevent
• Linking data contracts to data mesh and other modern data architectures
• Exploring how data contracts help maintain governance and compliance
• Demonstrating how data contracts ensure quality for AI-driven applications
• Discussing platform thinking and its role in scaling data contract implementations
• Offering practical advice on how to begin using data contracts in your organization

• Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn
• Connect with Omar on LinkedIn