Star schema and Oracle BI: One Version of Truth for Your Data

Star scheme

The foundation of the Star Schema was laid by Ralph Kimball, whose theories on dimensional modeling predated the rise of BI software and remain highly relevant for how data is represented in Oracle’s BI environment. The Star Schema is essentially a visual model that places facts and dimensions at the core.

In an abstract sense:

Star Schedule Conrete

Fact

The foundation of the Star Schema was laid by Ralph Kimball, whose theories on dimensional modeling predated the rise of BI software and remain highly relevant for how data is represented in Oracle’s BI environment. The Star Schema is essentially a visual model that places facts and dimensions at the core.

Example of a Star Schema:
Consider revenue, where different calculations group data, such as by invoices or revenue amounts. A fact becomes a KPI when associated with a standard, budget, or evaluation.
Within Oracle BI, a fact only gains significance when it has a clear definition that aligns with your operations using Oracle JD Edwards. This prompts questions such as:

• What counts as revenue? For instance, all invoiced amounts.
• Which currency applies?
• What is the correct date (invoice or general ledger date)?

Dimension

A dimension can be recognized whenever the term “per” is used alongside a fact:

• What is Revenue per Customer?
• What is Revenue per Month?

A dimension also requires a clear definition. For instance, what precisely defines a “customer”? Each detail matters, as attributes like country or invoice number add context to your analysis.
Together, these elements form a business information model, also known as Oracle’s Common Enterprise Information Model, providing a single source of truth. In the next article, we’ll explore how facts and dimensions work together for clear business insights.

Hierarchy

When a dimension also has a structure, it is referred to as a hierarchy.ctuur kent, spreekt men van een hiërarchie.

In Oracle JD Edwards, data is often organized using category codes. The correct interpretation of these codes can make all the difference. Consider the time dimension with its logical calendar structure. This structure opens up many options within Oracle BI to explore your data: Drill Down, Roll Up, Zoom In, and Zoom Out. You can also summarize or detail information at different aggregation levels.
In my next article, I will further illustrate the interplay between facts and dimensions with examples.

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