Spark 3 Use Cases

This page lists the different Spark 3 use cases.

Use Case 1: Gradual Migration Strategy

Scenario: Organization wants to upgrade from Spark 3.3.3 to Spark 3.5.5

Solution:

1. Install Spark 3.5.5 alongside existing Spark 3.3.3
2. Test critical applications on Spark 3.5.5
3. Migrate applications incrementally
4. Decommission Spark 3.3.3 once all applications are migrated

Benefits: Controlled migration with minimal risk

Use Case 2: Multi-Team Environment

Scenario: Different teams use different Spark versions

Solution:

• Team A uses Spark 3.5.5 for new ML pipelines
• Team B maintains Spark 3.3.3 for legacy ETL jobs
• Team C tests Spark 3.5.1 for compatibility

Benefits: Independent team velocities without infrastructure conflicts

Use Case 3: Development & Testing

Scenario: Test Spark upgrades with production data

Solution:

1. Deploy Spark 3.5.5 in a production cluster
2. Test applications with production data
3. Compare performance and compatibility
4. Make informed upgrade decisions

Benefits: Accurate testing without separate environments

Use Case 4: Vendor Application Support

Scenario: Third-party applications certified for specific Spark versions

Solution:

• Run certified applications on their required Spark version
• Deploy newer applications on the latest Spark version
• Maintain compliance and support agreements

Benefits: Flexibility without compromising vendor support