> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.woven.dev/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.woven.dev/docs/archived-11-5/key-concepts.md).

# Key Concepts

## Self-Governed Data

Schema metadata is embedded within the code itself, automatically updated as the code changes. This eliminates the need for separate, potentially outdated, data documentation. Governance becomes a *prerequisite* for data production.

## Shift-Left Data Engineering

Software Engineers take ownership of the data they create, including defining and documenting it accurately from the start (during development) rather than later (after it's produced). When a developer creates a new field, they are responsible for defining what that field means and how it should be used.

## Data DevX

The concept of building software with data as a first-class citizen. Data is not an afterthought, but a core consideration throughout the development process. Data DevX practices include using code-synced metadata and Data APIs to ensure data is discoverable, usable, and reliable.

## Code-Synced Metadata

Woven automatically keeps schema metadata up-to-date by connecting it directly to your source code. Whenever the code that defines your data changes, the metadata is automatically updated as well. Instead of maintaining a separate data dictionary, Woven uses the code itself as the source of truth for data definitions.

## Data API (DAPI)

Similar to how software exposes functionality through APIs, DAPIs treat data as a product with well-defined specifications and usage patterns. This approach encourages collaboration between data producers (software engineers) and data consumers (analysts, data scientists).

## Data Access

The intentional sharing of data with specific use cases in mind. Data access can be `Public` (open to everyone) or `Private` (controlled access for authorized users). A company might grant public access to anonymized user demographics data while keeping private user contact information.