What distinguishes a centralized implementation from other types?

A centralized implementation is characterized by its focus on serving multiple business units through a singular, cohesive framework. This approach consolidates data management and analytics, allowing various parts of the organization to access and benefit from a unified data model. By doing so, a centralized implementation promotes consistency in data usage and governance across all business units, facilitating collaboration and streamlined reporting.

This design contrasts with other approaches that may orient around individual departments or functions, where disparate models could lead to inconsistencies and challenges in data integration. While handling large data volumes, incorporating external data sources, or utilizing data replication can be components of a centralized system, the defining feature of this approach is its ability to serve a variety of business units collectively with one model, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in their data consumption and analysis endeavors.