#83: dbt vs Stored Procedures (3 key differences)
Mar 19, 2025When it comes to data transformation, one of the most common tools nowadays is dbt.
But one of the arguments against using these code based tools is that you can instead just write store procedures or ad hoc queries directly in the database.
While technically this is possible...
To me, that misses some of the biggest benefits of using these tools in the first place.
And so in this video, we’re going to cover some of the main differences between using code based tools like dbt.
Versus writing store procedures directly in the database.
In particular, we'll focus on differences in core functionality, maintainability and governance.
While I recognize these are buzzwordy terms, they're also important.
So let's discuss.
When you're ready, here are 3 ways I can help you further:
1. The Modern Engineer Playbook (Online Course): Master the art of building modern data architectures. Get an end-to-end blueprint for building simple, structured & scalable data pipelines with modern tools.Â
2. The Playbook for dbt™ (Online Course): Learn to build, automate & scale dbt™ with confidence. Discover common strategies teams follow, avoid costly rookie mistakes & get actionable tips based on real-world experience, not a textbook.
3. Consulting Services:Â Request to work 1:1 with Michael Kahan to help you and your team implement a modern data architecture with a simple, scalable structure.