Chapter 2. Planning Your Model
IBM Cognos Transformer is a data modeling tool designed for use with IBM
Cognos 8 version 8.3 and subsequent releases.
You use this component to create a model, a business presentation of the
information in one or more data sources. After you choose a supported product
locale (language), add dimensional metadata, specify the measures (performance
indicators), and apply custom views, you can create PowerCubes based on this
model. You can deploy these cubes to support OLAP reporting and analysis.
This section provides a high-level overview of the modeling and planning process
to meet the OLAP needs of your users, as well as information about how to
upgrade an IBM Cognos Series 7 Transformer model.
The documented workflow follows a logical sequence, beginning with analyzing
your requirements and building a prototype model. If you have already completed
this planning stage, you can proceed to the sections of this document that deal
with data sources (Chapter 3), dimensions (Chapter 4), and measures (Chapter 5).
Dimensional Modeling Workflow
IBM Cognos Transformer is a proven and relatively simple tool for modeling
dimensional hierarchies and levels for PowerCubes.
After you relate the dimensions to your business performance indicators, you can
create powerful, secure cubes to be used for reporting and drill-through analysis in
the IBM Cognos studios.
v Carefully analyze your users' OLAP reporting requirements.
v If you have not already done so, build a prototype model.
v Choose your transactional and structural data sources and import the facts
(measures) and metadata (dimensions).
v Map your metadata into dimensions, and your facts into measures.
v Verify the model and resolve any ambiguities.
v Organize the data in your model into customized dimension views or cube
groups.
v Apply security and create custom views to control access to sensitive
information.
v Create and publish PowerCubes to IBM Cognos Connection.
v Manage and maintain your models, cubes, and reports for optimal effectiveness.
Troubleshooting tips are provided in this document and in the Administration and
Security Guide. This document also provides an overview of the functions
supported by Cognos Transformer, and how they may be used to create calculated
expressions. For more information, see “Cognos Transformer Functions” on page
99.
For information about scripting, see the Cognos Transformer Developer Guide and
the Cognos Transformer Automation Guide.
© Copyright IBM Corp. 2007, 2011 3
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