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ten mistakes
to avoid
In Dimensional Modeling
By Christopher Adamson
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ten mistakes to avoid
In Dimensional Modeling
By Christopher Adamson
Foreword
A dimensional model transforms data into information—the
fundamental objective of every business intelligence (BI) program.
Although it has become the de facto standard for data mart
design, common mistakes disrupt this crucial function.
The dimensional model is more capable than is generally
understood. Often pigeonholed as a data model, it is not
exploited as a presentation model in a federated environment, or
as a requirements model. Entire subject areas are closed off by
the common misconception that some things can only be modeled
using entity-relationship techniques.
To attain the full potential of your dimensional model, it is
necessary to master a broad range of principles, understand
how and what to model, and avoid lapsing into habits from other
modeling disciplines.
A dimensional model of your business is an important asset
of your BI program. Maximize its value by avoiding these
10 mistakes.
© 2011 by TDWI (The Data Warehousing InstituteTM), a division of 1105 Media, Inc.
All rights reserved. Reproductions in whole or in part are prohibited except by written
permission. E-mail requests or feedback to info@tdwi.org.
Product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
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Mistake One:
Thinking of the DimensIonal Model as a
Data Model
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Mistake Three:
Assuming Some Things Cannot Be
Modeled Dimensionally
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(Continued)
The conformance imperative holds true regardless of your data
warehousing architecture. It is necessary both within a subject
area and across data marts. Conformance plans are commonly
illustrated through matrix diagrams that cross-reference
dimensions with major processes or fact tables. This plan is
backed by a fully attributed dimensional design, and mapped to
real data sources.
When dimensional data architecture is designed around
conformed dimensions, the model serves as a blueprint.
Implementation can proceed one subject area at a time,
each snapping into the overall framework without the risk of
incompatibility.
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Mistake Six:
Compromising Dimensions
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Mistake Eight:
Not Considering Source Data
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Mistake Ten:
Documenting The Wrong Things
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