Data Warehouse

The data warehouse provides the foundation for business intelligence by providing access to the appropriate data in a way that’s easy to understand. The two main components are the design of a robust data model and the development of effective ETL (Extraction, Transformation & Loading) processes.

The data model translates business concepts into a logical format that is efficient and maintainable. All Altis consultants are formally trained in dimensional modeling and our approach includes milestone reviews where fellow team members critique solutions.

Our consultants are also trained in multiple ETL tools and are able to leverage our internal knowledge-base for support.

The three typical engagements that we participate in are:

• Data Warehouse Implementation

• Data Mart Development

• Data Warehouse Health Checks

Traditional design and build of data warehouse and business intelligence solutions remain a significant part of our business due to our use of the Kimball Development Methodology around iteration. Our experience has shown the alternative all-inclusive development approach can be costly, as you can spend a huge amount of money building a foundation layer before you’ve actually figured out what the business wants, or how they’re going to use it.

We believe it’s more effective to build in increments, allowing you to get the data and the insights, and the reporting environment in place faster. Then ask the business to use it and provide feedback on what else they need to be more effective.

This approach means you can start with a specific subject area (for example, sales, or marketing, or HR, or even a specific business unit), build that solution, get them using it, learn what refinements are needed at the technical level, as well as how to improve the user experience from a business intelligence point of view.