DataSource 

Definition

Data that logically belongs together is stored in the source system in the form of DataSources.

A DataSource consists of a quantity of fields that are offered for data transfer into BI. The DataSource is technically based on the fields of the extraction structure. By defining a DataSource, these fields can be enhanced as well as hidden (or filtered) for the data transfer.

Additionally, it also describes the properties of the associated extractor in regard to data transfer to BI. During the metadata upload, the BI-relevant properties of the DataSource are replicated to BI.

There are four types of DataSources:

·        DataSources for transaction data

·        DataSources for master data

These can be:

-         DataSources for attributes

-         DataSources for texts

-         DataSources for hierarchies

Integration

DataSources are used for extracting data from a source system and for transferring data into BI. DataSources make the source system data available to BI on request in the form of the (if necessary, filtered and enhanced) extraction structure. In the DataSource maintenance in BI, you determine which fields from the DataSource are actually transferred. Transfer of data occurs in the input layer of BI, the Persistent Staging Area (PSA). In the transformation, you determine what the assignment of fields from the DataSource to InfoObjects from BI should look like. Further distribution of the data from the PSA to other targets is done using data transfer processes. The rules that you set in the transformation apply here.