Data Requirements
BBM will utilize any existing legacy systems as well as your conventional ERP system for the original data, and work with your staff to define your needs with respect to critical business initiatives at hand.

Dimensional Model
Once the data requirements are established, BBM will begin working on the dimensional model, using ERwin, or other standard entity relationship modeling packages. BBM uses this model to identify fact tables, the associated conforming dimensions, attributes, as well as the hierarchical drill paths.

Extraction, Transformation, Load
Using a front-end application, such as Informatica, for the ETL tool (Extraction, Transformation, and Load), data integrity issues can be uncovered early in the BDLC to properly set and manage expectations relative to the installation of an Enterprise Data Warehouse. It is important to have all data issues resolved prior to moving forward, and BBM offers assistance in getting to this resolution.

Staging
BBM creates the data model and maps the data from a staging area to perspective data marts. The data that is to be staged is extracted from the legacy system in its original format. The mart contains data that has been migrated from this staging area based on the transformation rules.

Data Validation
BBM uses SQL Navigator or another type of validation query tool, to validate the accuracy of the data. It is important to focus on data accuracy and integrity, as this step will identify errors that could ultimately give our clients bad data. Errors identified here could be a result of the processes completed prior to its passing to the data mart, or it could be due to incomplete requirements. For this reason it is important to have thorough data requirements in the initial stages of the project.

Reporting
Once the staged data matches the original data within the legacy and/or ERP system, we move forward. The reporting tool is brought into play at this time. BBM can use MicroStrategy, Cognos, Brio, or whatever tool is desired, to generate the defined reports. Part of the requirements gathering phase identified the various types of information needed by the users. This information is used to create and generate the necessary reports. Most report tools allow the user to review or alter the information generated to give more detailed results. The client, with BBM’s assistance, will ensure the accuracy of the information reported.

User Documentation
User documentation can be developed in many formats, including Microsoft Word and/or HTML, if the client wishes it to be web-enabled.

Training and Support
The key to the success of this implementation is to allow you to move forward and expand the process as needed. BBM will train you in all aspects of the data warehouse to enable you to move forward. We will be there to support you if the need should arise.

Success!
BBM wants to be a part of your successful Enterprise Data Warehouse implementation. We have what it takes to get you there. We want you to have the right data, in the right format, at the right time.