Cognos makes extensive use of data warehousing concepts. Most data warehouses are built using dimensional modeling techniques (also known as the “Kimball style”). Data is divided into fact and dimension tables, which are joined together in star schemas. Restructuring data in this fashion takes a great deal of effort, both in planning and implementation. These types of changes are only done because they are necessary for high-quality analytics. Understanding more about how they work and why they are important can help make Cognos a more efficient and effective reporting tool. Read more
Tag Archive for: Dimensional Modeling
When creating multidimensional models with IBM Cognos Transformer, many different types of data sources can be utilized such as reports, packages, Excel, and comma delimited files to design the model. Also various work environments may be used such as TEST, DEV, and PROD all of which have different server locations. Read more
You may have heard about the new Dynamic Cubes feature available in IBM Cognos. New technology is great, but if you have a library of existing PowerPlay cubes in your environment, you need to decide if it makes sense to migrate these cubes to Dynamic Cubes. Where does this new technology fit in your environment? What should you use to develop new cube capabilities if you choose to pursue them? This article will lay out the pros and cons of each approach in use case form to help you decide how best to leverage Cognos in your organization. Read more