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Define your operating model

ℹ️ Tip: Before you begin, consult the Operating Model Glossary for key terms used throughout this section.

The operating model is the foundation for how your organization will work with Microsoft Fabric. It defines the people, processes, tools, and governance structures that ensure consistent, secure, and efficient usage of Fabric across your enterprise.

A well-defined operating model helps align strategic intent with execution and enables you to scale your Fabric adoption sustainably. This includes not only technology decisions, but also decisions around roles, responsibilities, and business integration.

The Fabric operating model is composed of several interdependent methodologies:

  • Manage: Align ongoing processes for operational technology management, including platform operations, change management, and monitoring of Fabric capacities and workspaces.
  • Govern: Maintain alignment with governance and compliance requirements, enforcing standards across all Fabric artifacts and capacities.
  • Secure: Align your organization with security disciplines to protect data, manage identity, and monitor access consistently within Fabric.
  • Organize: Define the organizational structure and roles and responsibilities required to support your operating model across business units and domains.

Dependencies and inputs​

When defining your operating model, ensure it is based on the broader Fabric adoption strategy and planning work:

Your Fabric environment should reflect how your business operates—organizationally, technologically, and in terms of compliance. Revisit and refine your operating model as you progress through the adoption lifecycle.

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