The Data Berg Model
This white paper introduces the Data Berg Model and the principles behind it. It explains why long-lived and archived data should be viewed as a system state rather than a passive storage layer, and establishes the behavioural vocabulary used throughout subsequent publications.
Purpose
The model provides a shared language for reasoning about data after active operational use has declined.
The model
Cooling identifies stabilised data. Freezing captures sufficient context for future understanding. Frozen is the long-lived Data Berg state. Melt, Thaw, Calving and Evaporation describe subsequent observable behaviours.
Use
The model can be used as a lens for mapping data sets, improving discussion and revealing governance or system questions that might otherwise remain hidden.
Revision history
Version 1.1 — July 2026
- Current public version.
Version 1.0 — July 2026
- First version.