Data Mesh as Organizational Doctrine, Not Architecture
Data Mesh represents a recurring enterprise pattern of decentralizing data responsibility and federating decision-making, not a new architectural category. This article maps Data Mesh components to historical precedents, clarifying what it governs-accountability and operating behavior-and what it does not provide automatically, such as integration or semantic consistency. It highlights risks when organizational labels are mistaken for technical architectures, emphasizing the need for explicit enforcement mechanisms. The analysis underscores that ownership, interoperability, governance, semantics, and integration have long been distinct responsibilities requiring clear boundaries. Understanding this history reduces misinterpretation and supports better decision-making around enterprise data management.