Developing the optimal DWH scenario
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Data & Analytics, Project Management
DWH architecture, software selection, BI governance
In the implementation and consolidation of data warehouse (DWH) solutions, the decisions regarding a specific architecture, the software to be utilised, and BI governance are of strategic significance. Nevertheless, this issue is often considered very subjectively and the decision is influenced only by a few people – e.g., is software manufacturer ABC market leader in this industry.
In this, taking into consideration all relevant hard and soft criteria falls to the wayside. The consequences are comparatively higher total cost of ownership (TCO) and insufficient acceptance by the end users. An objective and structured method for the selection of the suitable DWH scenario can help you to bet on the right horse straight from the start.
ARE YOU AWARE OF YOUR SELECTION CRITERIA?
This question is often being underestimated. As long as the criteria for the DWH scenario to be utilised are not yet defined clearly, no objective and structured selection can take place. Creating a weighted catalogue of criteria provably increases the quality of the selection process in comparison to pure "gut decisions". In order to clarify the requirements that are quite often vague at the start of the project, it is - furthermore - mandatory to create functional specifications. The additional expense generated for the formal recording of one's own requirements is an investment that always pays off in the long term.
METHODOLOGY FOR THE SELECTION OF A DWH SCENARIO?
From requirements analysis to final selection of the suitable solution, we support you with a tried and tested methodology and our subject area and methodological expertise. In this, the focal points of the content and of the methods applied is always aligned with your individual decision situation – for example, the model can be applied both to situations with a completely open-ended decision result as well as to situations with alternatives that you have already preselected. The individual definition and weighting of your evaluation criteria is, in this, also always prerequisite for the final decision for a DWH scenario being truly optimal.
FORMAL ASSESSMENT METHODS AS AIDS
Formal and/or mathematical methods for the assessment of different alternatives (e.g. comparison in pairs, TCO consideration, cost/benefit analysis, etc.) serve for structuring the assessments and making their result comprehensible. The results of these methods are not incontrovertible since assessments by their very nature follow individual premises. Nevertheless, they are quite valuable as aids for decision support: On the one hand, in order to considerably increase the objectivity in comparison to a gut decision, and on the other hand, in order to effect a consensus - especially in controversial situations - due to their high traceability.
PROFIT FROM OUR EXPERIENCE
noventum has long years of experience in the areas of business intelligence and data integration. From strategy definition all the way to implementation, we have successfully carried out numerous projects jointly with our customers. Due to our product-independent consulting approach, a wide spectrum of different BI and DI tools was utilised in this. This background makes noventum a strong partner in the selection of a DWH scenario, with comprehensive and independent expertise in all areas of data management.
BENEFITS OF A STRUCTURED DWH SCENARIO SELECTION
- The degree of achievement of objective of DWH implementations is increased significantly when relevant alternatives are compared in advance and when ultimately the DWH scenario that best matches the requirements is selected.
- Cost optimisation in general
For example, due to comparatively lower TCO costs (total cost of ownership): Licenses, maintenance, support, training, enhancements, etc.
- Cost optimisation of DWH projects
By ensuring the right "fit" of operational requirements and standard functionalities, the risk of having to adjust the standard software is reduced – and/or, worst case, of not being able to sufficiently support the business processes.
- Preparedness for the future
Taking into account the subject area and technical strategy in the selection of a scenario ensures that the selected tool is also a good basis for future requirements.
- Consensus in the BI strategy
By involving the affected organisational units (subject area / technical), and due to the objective basis of the assessment, the decision for a DWH scenario is carried jointly. The results are increased acceptance, user satisfaction, and Involvement.
noventum consulting GmbH
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