Data warehouses require sizing, data management tools, structure, and software platform. Hardware and facility sizing should consider future expansion, while data management tools should fit the warehouse’s needs. The structure and software platform depend on the data and users’ complexity.
While all data warehouses are slightly different, there are four different data warehouse requirements that are common to nearly all warehouses: sizing, data management tools, structure, and software platform. A data warehouse is any system used to store large amounts of data in a format that allows for data extraction and report development. This tool has grown exponentially as more and more organizations begin to collect and use large amounts of electronic data on a regular basis. These four requirements drive all decisions about setting up and maintaining a successful data warehouse.
Data warehouse requirements for hardware and facility sizing can be very complex, as these requirements depend on a combination of known and unknown factors. Minimum sizing for physical space should always include current equipment, as well as plans for future expansion. The actual space required to increase storage capacity decreases as the server manufacturing process improves. Therefore, the minimum space required could be reduced, assuming that the equipment is updated to the latest version every year.
Purchasing excess unused storage capacity is not very cost-effective, as storage equipment has a very high depreciation rate. Sizing the business needs for a 12 to 18 month window into the future is the most common process used when planning the purchase of data warehouse related hardware. Any upgrade or improvement plans will have a significant impact on the required capacity.
Data management tools are used to move data in and out of the data warehouse. The type and complexity of the software used is a key requirement of the data warehouse. The best fit of the software depends on the functionality required, the intended user, and the complexity of the data required by the warehouse.
Data warehouse requirements include the selection of the data warehouse structure. There are several structures available, and the selection depends on the data being added to the warehouse, the complexity of the actual data queries, and the sophistication of the users. The software platform is an essential element of your data warehouse requirements and will drive many of your instrument support and maintenance decisions.
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