Data warehouse testing ensures the integrity of data stored in a facility by identifying and correcting errors before they become irreparable. The process uses software to check data sources and compare current conditions with the original state. Exceptions are flagged for review and can be fixed using built-in protocols or manual analysis. Regular testing is recommended to maintain data completeness and prevent corruption.
Data warehouse testing is a process used to inspect and qualify the integrity of data held in some type of storage facility. The idea behind the test is to make sure that the data has not suffered any kind of corruption and remains complete and recoverable as and when needed. Regular testing of the archived data helps identify any problems that may be developing and correct those problems before the archived data becomes completely corrupted and can only be partially reconstructed using some type of data recovery process.
In many ways, data warehouse testing is very similar to any type of test performed to ensure the integrity of information stored on a computer’s hard drive or remote storage device. The data held in the warehouse is systematically checked using software that reads every file or other data source to ensure it remains fully intact and accessible. Some types of data warehouse testing software have the ability to fix a limited range of errors as part of the overall testing process. Others simply compile a list of the exceptions, allowing the user to evaluate each exception individually before any action is taken.
Data warehouse tests typically use a system-triggered model. This simply means that the software uses a basic formula known as ETL or extract-transform loading. The idea is to compare the current condition of the data with the condition of the information when it was first stored. If errors are identified, the data is flagged for further review. In most cases, the errors or exceptions are minor and can be fixed with relatively little effort, using protocols built into the test software or through review by an analyst who can approve the fix or reject the exception as a real kind of corruption.
The basic process of testing the data warehouse is very similar to testing any type of electronic information transaction. The information is examined in blocks or cells which are then cleared or annotated for any exceptions the software has identified before moving on to the next block. Once the process is complete, a summary of the test is compiled, including information about the types of exceptions found and whether those exceptions were fixed during testing or are awaiting manual review. As with any type of system testing, it’s a good idea to conduct data warehouse tests on a regular basis to ensure that information remains complete and free from any type of corruption.
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