Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
3. The foundation for successful data warehousing, now and into the future,
is properly structuring the data. Data must be organized to support the
business perspective. This provides ease of use and improved query
performance. This design is created based on a knowledge of the business
requirements, as well as the reality of the existing data. Chapter 7 focuses
on how the business and technical team members can work together to
develop appropriate data models for this data delivery layer.
4. After defining how the data will be organized, the design for getting the
data from the source systems to the database can be created. Decisions
about the architecture and tools needed to prepare the data can be made
in the proper context. Too often these decisions are made before you
know what is to be delivered. Chapter 9 provides the background needed
to understand data warehouse architecture and technology. Chapter 10
deals with the challenges of preparing the data for business reporting
and analytical use.
5. While the data is being prepared, the data access and application layer
can be designed. This includes the design of basic reports, business
intelligence, and analytical applications, and performance dashboards or
other end user tools. Chapter 11 focuses on final delivery of data to the
business community.
Many different project methodologies are available for all systems' devel-
opment efforts. There are even multiple methodologies specifically targeted
toward data warehousing. These have evolved over several decades. Most
organizations already have adopted some type of project methodology or
project life cycle. It is important to understand how your organization runs
projects to ensure that the data warehouse project is adhering to the strategic
direction for all information systems. Several basic building blocks are found
in any methodology. These primary components, discussed throughout the
topic, are as follows:
Project definition, planning and management
is outlined in Chapters 4
and 5.
Defining business requirements
is discussed in Chapter 6.
Designing the data delivery database
is covered in Chapter 7.
Defining the architecture
is discussed in Chapter 9 and includes devel-
opment of the database
Processes for building the database
are reviewed in Chapter 10.
Developing reports/analyses and providing education/support
is pre-
sented in Chapter 11 and includes deployment of the final results.
