A data warehouse is a centralized repository that stores information from multiple sources in a standardized format, providing a single source of truth for structured data. It's designed to handle large volumes of data and complex queries, making it suitable for enterprise-wide analytics. On the other hand, a data mart is a subset of a data warehouse designed to cater to specific analytical needs of individual departments or user groups within an organization. Data marts are decentralized, focusing on specific information from just a handful of sources or even a single source, providing fast access to relevant data for targeted analysis and reporting functions. The choice between a data mart and a data warehouse depends on factors such as data complexity, organizational structure, budget, analysis, governance, and security requirements. Data warehouses are more flexible regarding scalability and expansion, while data marts offer customization and agility with fewer resources required. Organizations should assess their specific needs and objectives when evaluating whether to implement one or the other approach.