The Theme
Continuing “The Last Mile”
Building on 2022’s theme of The Last Mile, the 2023 Data-Centric Architecture Forum dove deeper into the practical, architectural challenges faced by organizations implementing data-centric solutions. As applications move to the periphery, this year focused on integrating ten core capabilities—traditionally handled in app-specific code—directly into the architecture.
Each of the ten challenges, including authentication, fine-grained authorization, entity/URI resolution, federation, and constraint management, was explored through a 90-minute session. Implementors shared real-world solutions, not theoretical overviews, with a structured 60-minute presentation window for vetted speakers and 30 minutes for discussion. The format ensured a focused, practical look at how graph and semantic technologies are addressing complex enterprise needs.
Topics also included model-driven UIs, visualization strategies, BI integration, and SemOps—speeding the feedback loop from model changes to actionable insight. The sessions offered a rare chance to see how leaders are building hardened, reusable components that shift power away from brittle applications and into a resilient, data-centric foundation.
The Agenda
June 5th | 8:45 a.m.
Alan Morrison
State of the Data-Centric Architecture Ecosystem
June 5th | 9:15 a.m.
Jans Aasman | Franz
Security Considerations in Knowledge-centric Applications
June 5th | 1:00 p.m.
Alan Morrison
Countering the Stochastic Parrot Worshippers: LLMs, NLU and Kerosene
Followed by an open discussion.
June 6th | 9:00 a.m.
Jans Aasman | Franz
Codependency of Machine Learning and Knowledge Graphs for Learning Systems
June 6th | 10:00 a.m.
Neil Graham | Semantic Arts
RDFHash Tool for reusability and compression of RDF Graphs
June 6th | 11:00 a.m.
Ryan Riccucci | Dept. of Homeland Security
Operationalizing ontology for autonomous, semantically-enabled pattern recognition and alerting for unmanned aerial systems
June 6th | 1:00 p.m.
Forrest Hare | KSK
The Importance of Basic Formal Ontology in Integrating KGs from Multiple Intelligence Production Organizations
June 6th | 2:00 p.m.
Michael Uschold & Doug Beeson | Semantic Arts:
gist Enterprise Upper Ontology
June 6th | 3:00 p.m.
Panel Discussion
Q&A, General Thoughts on Upper Ontologies
June 7th | 8:30 a.m.
Eliud Polanco | Fluree
The Great Escape: Liberating 20+ Years of Legacy Data into Knowledge Graphs and Semantics with AI
June 7th | 10:30 a.m.
Kirt Stirewalt | Relational.AI
Enterprise Knowledge Graphs at AT&T
Interested in Sponsoring or Presenting?
The data-centric systems being built today demand more architectural support than the current ecosystem provides. Maybe you offer part of the solution. Maybe you’re looking for the rest. Either way, DCAF is where real progress happens—through shared insight, live demos, and candid conversations that move the field forward.
Lead the Conversation
DCAF attracts experts rethinking how systems are built. Speaking here shows you’re shaping the future—not just following it. Share real results with peers who understand the work.
Reach Real Decision Makers
DCAF draws senior architects and data leaders from top organizations. As a speaker or sponsor, you connect directly with people who influence big decisions and budgets.
Connect with Real Experts
No booths. No drive-bys. DCAF is intimate by design, giving you time for focused, one-on-one conversations that go deep—without the noise of a typical tech expo.
Stand for Innovation
DCAF is known for cutting through hype. Align your brand with real innovation, real results, and the people who are building what’s next in data-centric architecture.