In this article we'll introduce you to Smartload and explore the essential features of this data management tool within Catalyst. From data importing to analysis, Smartload simplifies the process, making it easier for users to handle large volumes of data efficiently.
This article contains the following topics:
Introduction
Smartload is a versatile tool within our product offerings, aimed at making data processing faster and more efficient. It provides a user-friendly interface for importing and exporting vast amounts of data, creating standard and custom measures, reducing data footprint requirements and saving valuable time. This document aims to clarify Smartload's functionality, its relationship with other key definitions, and its significance in our ecosystem.
How Smartload Appears In-App
What is Smartload Used For
Smartload simplifies the process of handling datasets, allowing for quicker analysis and decision-making. With Smartload, you can expedite data processing tasks, leading to improved operational efficiency. Maybe its most important feature, is that it unlocks the ability to create your own cubes and define the structure of your own cubes, which previously wasn't possible.
Key Features
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Tabular Data Format: Resembles traditional tables, like spreadsheets or databases.
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Columns and Rows: Familiar structure for easy comprehension.
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DAX Language: Employs DAX for calculations and transformations.
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Measures and Calculated Columns: DAX-defined metrics and values.
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In-Memory Storage: Quick analysis due to in-memory data storage.
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Columnar Storage: Enhances compression and query speed.
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Self-Service Analytics: User-friendly interface for non-technical users.
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Business Intelligence Tools: Used with Power BI, Excel, and more.
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Relationships: Allows complex analysis with table connections.
Data Levels in Smartload: Understanding L1, L2, and L3
L1 (Level 1) - Raw Data from Single Source
Characteristics:
- Lowest level, typically raw data from a single specific ERP system
- Minimal processing, retains original detail and structure
- Visible in Smartload UI under the "Fact Tables" section
- May contain numerous columns and detailed base data
Example: Detailed financial transactions from a specific regional ERP system, including every individual accounting entry.
L2 (Level 2) - Multi-Source Consolidation
Characteristics:
- Combines data from multiple ERPs or data sources
- More organized than L1, but still retains significant detail
- Also visible in Smartload UI under "Fact Tables"
- May still have a large number of columns and extensive base data
Example: Combined financial data from multiple regional ERP systems, allowing for cross-regional analysis within Smartload.
L3 (Level 3) - Standardized Catalyst Cubes
Characteristics:
- Highest level of consolidation and standardization
- Incorporates data from L1 and L2 sources
- Formatted as standard Catalyst tabular cubes
- Not visible in the Smartload UI, found under the Analysis tab.
- Typically has fewer columns and less base data than L1 or L2
- Includes additional validation configuration and features
Example: A company-wide financial cube that standardizes data from all global operations, optimized for high-level reporting and analysis in Catalyst.
Key Distinctions
- Smartload vs. Catalyst: L1 and L2 are Smartload cubes, while L3 are standard Catalyst tabular cubes.
- User Interface: L1 and L2 cubes are visible and manageable in the Smartload UI, whereas L3 cubes are not.
- Data Volume: L3 cubes often have less granular data compared to L1 and L2, focusing on consolidated, analysis-ready information.
- Validation and Features: L3 cubes incorporate additional validation steps and features to ensure data consistency and usability within the broader Catalyst ecosystem.
Data Flow and Relationships
- L1 → L2 → L3: Data typically flows from L1 through L2 to L3, with each level adding structure, consolidation, and standardization.
- Attribute Tables: Can be linked to data at any level (L1, L2, or L3) to provide additional context and categorization.
Use Cases and Benefits
- L1: Useful for detailed auditing or when raw, unprocessed data from a single ERP is required.
- L2: Ideal for cross-system analysis within Smartload, combining multiple data sources while retaining detail.
- L3: Best for standardized, high-level decision making and reporting within the Catalyst environment, offering a unified view of the organization's data.
This multi-level approach allows organizations to maintain data granularity in Smartload (L1 and L2) while providing efficient, consolidated, and standardized views (L3) for various analytical needs in Catalyst.
Smartload Cubes
Tabular Cubes: Established and Versatile
Tabular cubes are recognized as a well-established, non-branded technology within the realm of data analytics. Built upon industry-standard practices and frameworks, tabular cubes offer rapid querying, analysis, and visualization capabilities. They employ the Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) language and are commonly associated with tools like Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power BI, and SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS). Tabular cubes provide a versatile platform for organizations to extract insights from their data assets.
Smartload Cubes: Tailored and Enhanced
In contrast, Smartload cubes represent a branded iteration of tabular cubes, intricately connected to your data lakehouse infrastructure. As an integral component of the Smartload suite, these cubes are tailored to meet your specific needs, offering enhanced functionality and streamlined data processing capabilities. Smartload cubes leverage the robustness of tabular cube technology while incorporating proprietary enhancements to optimize performance and facilitate seamless integration with your business' data ecosystem.
Differentiating Tabular and Smartload Cubes
While Smartload cubes include tabular cube characteristics, the reverse isn't always true. Smartload cubes are inherently tabular cubes but with additional branding and customization. However, the term "tabular cubes" may refer to a broader category of implementations across various contexts, not necessarily incorporating Smartload features.
Smartload is a powerful tool that simplifies data processing and enhances efficiency for end-users. By understanding its capabilities and integrations, you can maximize its benefits in your day-to-day operations. Now that you have an understanding of what it is and can do for you, let’s dive into how to use it in our Smartload 101 training found here.
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