ETL

Extract, Transform, Load — the classic data-pipeline pattern for moving data between systems.

Definition

ETL describes batch data pipelines: extract from a source (CRM, database, file), transform (clean, join, enrich), load into a destination (warehouse, lake, downstream system). Tools include Airbyte, Fivetran, Stitch for managed extraction; dbt for in-warehouse transforms. The ELT variant (Extract, Load, Transform) pushes transforms into the warehouse where compute is cheaper.

When to use

See also