Data marts are specifically designed to store raw, unstructured data (such as video files, social media streams, and sensor logs) without any predefined schema or transformation logic. Data warehouse has the same architecture as source systems.

A data warehouse serves as the centralized, enterprise-wide repository that feeds dependent data marts, which are subject-oriented subsets optimized for the specific analytical needs of distinct business units (e.g., Marketing, HR).

The primary characteristic of a data warehouse is its ability to handle transactional data to replace operational ERP systems. Data marts are strictly temporary data silos that are rebuilt every hour.